WYMS hails ‘defining year’ of growth

A West Yorkshire-based manufacturing support organisation is marking a year of expansion and increased industry engagement as it strengthens its role across the regional engineering sector.

Brighouse-based West Yorkshire Manufacturing Services (WYMS) has experienced significant growth over the past year, underpinned by new leadership appointments, team expansion and the introduction of additional services designed to support manufacturers across West Yorkshire and beyond.

The charity has strengthened its board through the appointment of three new non-executive directors, with Sylvie Giangolini of Hako Machines Ltd, Nigel Bibby from OE Electrics and Adam Swallow of Olympus Technologies bringing additional strategic insight and sector experience. 

With these additions, the board now comprises nine members and reflects a broad mix of manufacturing and engineering expertise.

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.”

WYMS has also expanded its internal team with four new appointments, including marketing manager Freya Taylor, office manager Jane Westerby, administration and events assistant Anya Tate and business development executive Alex Tate, strengthening capacity across marketing, operations, events and business development.

The additional roles have increased operational capacity and helped extend the organisation’s reach within the manufacturing community.

Its supporter network has grown sharply, expanding from 40 manufacturers to 130 in 2025. 

Alongside this, WYMS has launched and developed a number of specialist regional groups, including forums focused on additive manufacturing, regional collaboration and valve technologies, creating new platforms for knowledge sharing and industry collaboration.

The year concluded with the charity’s most successful event to date, as WYMS hosted a large-scale National Manufacturing Day event in September, bringing together students, schools and manufacturing businesses from across West Yorkshire for hands-on activities and sector engagement.

Mark added: “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.

“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.”

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