ISMR October 2024 | Page 16

PEOPLE WATCH

Combilift celebrates double win at UK E & M Awards 2024

Combilift , a global innovator in materialhandling solutions , has achieved dual recognition at this year ’ s UK Engineering & Manufacturing Awards 2024 with two highly prestigious awards .
The ‘ Design Team of the Year ’ award , sponsored by Eureka Magazine , was presented to Combilift ’ s Heavy Equipment Team for its work on the 12-wheel Combi-LC Blade . This machine has been specifically engineered to handle offshore wind turbine blades , which can reach up to 115m in length and weigh as much as 70 tonnes .
“ The design significantly enhances the ability to transport these large , non-uniform loads safely and efficiently from manufacturing sites to storage and deployment locations . This solution addresses the growing needs of the renewable energy sector , where the demand for efficient logistics systems is increasing as the size and scale of offshore wind turbines continue to grow ,” commented Combilift . It designed the Combi-LC Blade in collaboration with Siemens Gamesa , one of the world ’ s largest suppliers of offshore wind turbine technology .
Combilift ’ s co-founder and CEO , Martin McVicar , also received the ‘ Industry Leader Award ’ ( sponsored by Menzies ). Since cofounding the company , McVicar has overseen its rapid growth , transforming it into one of Ireland ’ s top exporters , with a projected turnover of € 500 million this year . His approach to leadership combines technical expertise with a hands-on , inclusive management style .
The Combi-LC Blade .
With deep engineering knowledge , McVicar has a background as chief engineer at Moffett Engineering , a role he held at the age of 19 .
“ The judges highlighted McVicar ’ s ability to navigate the company through a range of external challenges , from the impacts of the pandemic to global supply chain disruptions , while maintaining a forward-thinking approach that identifies opportunities for growth and transformation ,” Combilift told ISMR . n
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. engineering manufacturingawards . com
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. combilift . com
Combilift ’ s Heavy Design team .
Martin McVicar , Co-Founder / CEO , Combilift .
Adrian Alday .

New CFO for Wilson Tool

Wilson Tool International ( the largest independent manufacturer of tooling systems for punch presses , pressbrakes and punch and die components for the stamping industry ) has announced the appointment of Adrian Alday as its chief financial officer ( CFO ).
“ As Chief Financial Officer , Adrian will be ensuring enterprise-wide alignment of Wilson Tool financial strategies in all Global Tooling and Enterprise locations and serving as a critical leader on the M & A team . Adrian joins us with extensive experience in manufacturing , telecommunications and packaging , as well as Private Equity where he gained significant experience in a variety of companies . His career is distinguished by his ability to analyse and evaluate companies ’ strategic initiatives and partner with C-Suite executives to drive company growth . Adrian has also demonstrated a strong ability to work collaboratively with Boards of Directors , ensuring alignment and driving success ,” commented Wilson Tool .
Adrian Alday holds a BA in Economics and International Relations from Trinity College in Hartford , CT ( USA ), and an MBA from the Weatherhead School of Management in Cleveland , OH ( USA ). Throughout his career , he has held various leadership positions in finance , auditing and accounting .
Wilson Tool International recently announced the acquisition of PASS Stanztechnik AG , a manufacturer of precision punch press tooling in Creußen , Germany . n
www
. wilsontool . com
16 | ismr . net | ISMR October 2024