West Yorkshire Manufacturing Services marks ‘defining year’
The Brighouse-based charity, which is dedicated to supporting growth in manufacturing and engineering across West Yorkshire and beyond, has appointed three new non-executive directors. Sylvie Giangolini from Hako Machines Ltd, Nigel Bibby of OE Electrics, and Adam Swallow of Olympus Technologies have each added strategic depth and wider sector expertise to the 9-strong WYMS board.
The organisation has also expanded its internal team with four new appointments strengthening operational capacity. Marketing manager Freya Taylor; office manager Jane Westerby; administration and events assistant Anya Tate; and business development executive Alex Tate have all helped to extend WYMS’ industry reach.
The WYMS Supporter Network, a community of partners and advocates championing the company’s mission, has grown from 40 manufacturers to 130 in 2025. And the team has created and grown several specialist communities across the region - the West Yorkshire Additive Manufacturing Forum, the North of England Regional Support Network and a dedicated Valve Collaboration group – facilitating opportunities for collaboration, knowledge sharing and industry support.
Mark Lewis, WYMS chief executive, said: “2025 has been a defining year for WYMS. Our growth reflects the strength of the manufacturing sector in West Yorkshire and the power of collaboration when businesses, educators and industry partners come together.
“We have listened to and been mindful of the challenges manufacturers face and responded directly to those industry needs. As well as introducing new services, we have created regular networking events, shaped by member feedback. Among other things, this has resulted in a ‘Mini Business Expo’ designed to connect manufacturers with targeted support providers.”
In September, WYMS hosted a flagship National Manufacturing Day 2025 event, bringing together around students from over 25 schools and 30 manufacturing companies from across West Yorkshire for a day of hands-on activities, industry insight and sector engagement. This was the charity’s most successful event to date, earning positive feedback from students, educators and exhibitors.
Mark says WYMS has no intention of slowing down in 2026: “Plans for 2026 include the launch of the Young Manufacturers Network, to support and develop early-career talent across the region’s engineering and manufacturing sectors; establishing a Valve Centre of Excellence; expanding our networking events; and introducing new Supporter Network tiers to offer enhanced engagement opportunities,” he says.
“We’re proud of what we’ve achieved this year and even more excited about what’s ahead as we continue to expand our support, our communities and our impact across the region.”
