Paul Rowe has been promoted to the position of director and will head-up the Industrial Systems division at Plymouth-based Applied Automation (UK) Ltd. The division specialises in factory and materials handling equipment.

This is a new role, introduced to enable the division which is already operating profitably, to significantly increase its market share. Senior management believe there is considerable potential for growth.

David Rowe, managing director said: “The Industrial Systems division has been progressing well but we see the opportunity for further substantial growth. In order to achieve this we need a concentrated focus at a senior management level. Paul has the necessary experience and will bring a positive and fresh perspective to the division.”

Paul Rowe, the son of managing director David Rowe, joined the company in 2003 as an apprentice and has worked in various positions in that time, developing his knowledge and experience across the whole company.

Paul Rowe said: “This is a fantastic opportunity and I’m really looking forward to the challenge ahead. Initially I will sit down with the team to identify where improvements can be made, then we can put a plan in place to really push-on and grow our market share. We supply high quality products that stack up very well against our competitors.”

Mr Rowe senior said: “It’s not easy to work within a company when you’re the son or daughter of the boss. There are high expectations and you have to overcome a certain amount of suspicion to earn the respect of your colleagues based on your own abilities.

“Is it inevitable that my son will end up running the business? Not necessarily. If Paul wants that role, he has to demonstrate the skills, determination and drive to take on a successful company and give it a prosperous future. Ultimately, the health of the business is the most important factor. Of course, when the time comes to choose a successor I would really like to think that Applied will remain a family business with Paul ready to take the helm. This appointment is a further step along that path.”

The Industrial Systems division was formed in 2015 and currently employs 17 people. Applied Automation is the sole agent in the UK and Ireland for the German manufactured MayTec aluminium profile and pipe and joint system and is the official UK and Northern Ireland distributor for the Carryline Swedish conveyer system.

Take me to the Industrial Systems division