Sheffield Forgemasters appoints non-executive director

Defence manufacturer Sheffield Forgemasters has appointed Kelly Jones as non-executive director as it continues a major programme of investment and transformation.

Kelly brings extensive experience in business turnaround and transformation, having held senior financial, operational and leadership roles with Rolls-Royce in the UK, China and the US. 

She has also served as chief executive at Rotary Power and Michell Bearings, and as transformation director at consultancy firm Kingsgate.

Kelly said: “This is a pivotal time to join such an iconic company as it faces the unique opportunities and challenges posed by large-scale transforming of its entire operating model and upskilling its talented workforce to capitalise on next generation technologies.

“I look forward to working with an exceptional leadership team in order to deliver this exciting new future for both the city and for UK manufacturing.”

Her appointment comes as the Ministry of Defence-owned business accelerates delivery of its £1.3 billion recapitalisation programme, alongside significant investment in new facilities and manufacturing capabilities.

Celebrating its 250th anniversary this year, Sheffield Forgemasters is constructing a new 13,000-tonne forging line and a 30,000sq metre machining hall as it strengthens its role supporting UK defence manufacturing.

Sir Tim Fraser, chair at Sheffield Forgemasters, added: “We welcome Kelly to the role of non-executive director at Sheffield Forgemasters and look forward to working closely to deliver on the incredible transformation of the business as we move towards a very different manufacturing model.

“Kelly’s background in transformation and restructuring for blue-chip and private enterprises on an international level will be invaluable as we look at amalgamating 250-years of skills and knowledge with state-of-the-art processes and facilities to position the business for future manufacturing.”

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