The UK Metals Council (UKMC) has appointed Rachel Eade MBE as its new chairperson, the first time a woman has led the organisation in its 20-year history.
The UK Metals Council, which was originally named the Metals Forum, represents thousands of businesses in all aspects of the UK’s metals sector, which contributes over £200 billion to the country’s GDP. Eade takes over from Chris McDonald, building upon his progress in making the trade organisation an accurate representation of the sector. She is an expert in supply chains with over two decades of experience working in the aerospace, automotive and rail industries.
Eade accepted the obvious challenges that the industry faces but pointed out that her career had mostly involved helping businesses to get through major disruption through diversification. She added:
“Metals is a foundation industry and critical to the success of UK manufacturing, especially as we look to create a greener economy. There is so much innovation in the sector, but we are crying out for an Industrial Minister and a cross-party Industrial Strategy.”
The appointment came as the sector prepared to host the first UK Metals Expo, a two-day event bringing together diverse range of metals professionals from areas such as recycling, academia, primary manufacturing, and supply chains.
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