A Cumbrian engineering solutions firm has appointed a new operations manager to lead work at its Barrow facility.
Furness-born Carl Hallows joins Forth’s senior management team following a 30-year career encompassing manufacturing, renewable energy and subsea electrification.
From its bases in Flimby, Cleator Moor, and Barrow, Forth provides innovative engineering solutions to clients including Sellafield, BAE Systems, NRS (formerly Magnox), EDF, Spirit Energy, Rolls-Royce and One Subsea, as well as global markets in marine, renewables and agricultural markets.
In the last 12 months Forth said it had increased turnover by 50%, profits had increased and the firm’s workforce has grown by 20%.
The firm has invested heavily in new premises by opening a third site at Cleator Moor’s Leconfield estate and opened an in-house fabrication unit in Barrow which supports the delivery of projects for BAE Systems.
Forth Fabrications was launched this year from a newly-acquired facility in Barrow to support BAE Systems Submarine division and other industries across the region, creating five new jobs, helping the company deliver end-to-end solutions to a diverse range of clients.
Carl said: “Building and managing successful teams has been one of my most satisfying roles and for me it’s all about people.
“Forth was founded on strong values around investing in people, respecting each other and being the best we can be. These values were a key factor in my decision to apply for this position.
“Forth operates across many industrial sectors and manages several important future concept projects, which I am excited to be working on with the support of a terrific team.”
The additional premises have helped to increase Forth’s capacity and enabled the firm to take on new contracts, increase the number of staff and continue the firm’s ongoing growth.
Forth’s managing director Mark Telford said: “The advantage of having this fabrication capability in-house is that we have total control over quality and turnaround time.
“I am delighted to welcome Carl to the team, he will be a fantastic addition to our Barrow operation. He has a proven record in leading and managing teams and delivering excellent results. His appointment is testament to our ambition and vision for the future as we continue to grow and take on major projects for clients and partners across the region and beyond.”
Carl’s appointment coincides with the internal promotion of two team members from Forth’s Barrow sites – Rob Laurie has been appointed as quality, safety and environmental manager while Neil Armistead is promoted to workshop manager.
Mark added: “These appointments significantly strengthen our Barrow management team and reflect Forth’s commitment to the town. Their expertise and shared passion for people, place and local communities is a huge asset to our Barrow operations and I am very proud to see them progress.”
