Name: Steve Gregory
Job title: Head of Regional Engagement and Director of LCR LEP Supply Chain and Manufacturing High Growth Programmes
Tell us about your career journey: I gained a degree in Applied Physics and Chemistry before moving into Industry. From there I spent time as Factory Manager, Production Manager and Continuous Improvement Manager at Needlers Sweets, then went on to work at British Gas, DuPont, Agfa and Cadbury Trebor Bassett in various senior roles. I was regional manager for the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS), delivered through Pera Consulting, covering Yorkshire & Humber and the East Midlands, advising and supporting manufacturing businesses across the two regions, until I joined the University in 2016 to help build its links with the business world.
Describe a typical day at work: I start off with a plan and finish the day with a new plan. Most of the day I spend talking to the team, intermediaries and companies about how we can support local businesses to grow. I put the world to rights and try and contribute to the team and businesses we work with by showing them how supply chains can be more efficient and streamlined.
What keeps you motivated at work? Helping businesses to grow by bridging the gap between the academic world and the commercial world, as well as lots of coffee and the colleagues I work with. We will soon be applying for the second versions of our programmes so we are just in the process of designing the ultimate support package.
The most exciting thing about your job? When the business support we deliver to manufacturing businesses in the region works and you see the results. I also enjoy the variety of the work we do, especially when it all comes together.
The most challenging? Negotiating the political landscape in the business support world of Local Authorities/Consultancies/LEPs and liaising with academics to deliver support in line with what the commercial world would expect.
Time of the day you most creative or inspired? Usually around 8:30am, just after my second coffee.
Proudest career moment? There are several significant moments, from leading MAS, being awarded the Supply Chain and Manufacturing High Growth Programmes, as well as leading our current team that works with innovative companies across the region.
Best piece of advice you’ve been given? You can only affect your spheres of influence and also seek redemption. The other is duck or Fore! (a golfing term if you’re not familiar!)
What innovations should we look out for in your industry? The manufacturing industry is evolving at a fast pace, especially in the application of the new technologies and optimising performance. The experience of our team enables us to support manufacturing companies across the region to embrace these advancements and help accelerate business growth.
Out of the office…? I spend a lot of time playing golf, spending time with my family and eating good food.