Made To Grow: The SME Manufacturing Podcast

In this episode of Made to Grow, host Rich Dale is joined by Marv Van Niekerk, COO of Flowlens, and Holly Steele-Nicholson, Customer Success Lead at Flowlens, to discuss the importance of data strategy and dashboard integration for small manufacturers. Together, they explore the transformative impact of MRP software and effective data management on SMEs’ operations, from improving decision-making to driving continuous improvement. Guest Overview: • Marv Van Nykerk Marv Van Niekerk is the COO at Flowlens, with a background as an accountant and over ten years of experience in leading operational strategy for manufacturing SMEs, Marv’s expertise spans multiple sectors. His intense focus and years of experience in helping SMEs master their systems and processes have been transformational for Flowlens customers (and for us!) as he has helped hundreds of manufacturers, many of whom operate in incredibly niche markets, to successfully digitally transform. • Holly Steele-Nicholson With a background in analytics and customer success, Holly brings unique insights into helping SMEs harness data to enhance their operations. Her work includes guiding SMEs through the Smart Manufacturing Data Hub initiative, supporting new users with onboarding their data to Flowlens and working closely with existing users to transform raw manufacturing data into powerful, actionable insights. Key Points: • MRP Software and Data Quality: Rich and Marv dive into the role of MRP software in consolidating manufacturing data. With automated systems, SMEs can eliminate the reliance on error-prone spreadsheets and focus on data-driven decisions that align with their business goals. • Driving Change with Consistent Data: Marv shares the challenges SMEs face when implementing new systems, emphasising the importance of a change-friendly culture to support new data strategies. He highlights how an organised, reliable data foundation is essential for accurate reporting and continuous improvement. • Smart Manufacturing and Dashboard Integration: Holly discusses her work with the Smart Manufacturing Data Hub, helping SMEs develop customised dashboards for real-time insights. These dashboards enable SMEs to track supply chain performance, customer success metrics, and key operational data in a way that supports everyday decision-making. • Creating a Data Strategy: Holly emphasises the significance of developing a clear data strategy, tailored to each SME’s unique objectives. The conversation includes how automation and integration can improve data accuracy and reduce human error, ensuring that the data captured is actionable and directly tied to business outcomes. • The Role of MRP Implementation in SME Growth: Both guests highlight examples of SMEs using MRP software to streamline their processes and manage operations more effectively. From sales order tracking to supplier performance monitoring, the episode demonstrates how technology can free up resources for strategic growth. Conclusion: This episode underscores how manufacturing SMEs can leverage MRP software and data management tools to strengthen decision-making, boost efficiency, and remain agile in a competitive landscape. Marv and Holly’s insights offer practical steps for SMEs looking to improve data quality and operational performance. Resources: To learn more about Flowlens and the Smart Manufacturing Data Hub project, visit the https://flowlens.com/https://flowlens.com/ or connect with Marv and Holly on LinkedIn. Help Us Grow Made to Grow: Keep up with the latest in manufacturing technology and best practices for SMEs. Don’t forget to subscribe, share, and review our podcast to help us reach more listeners. Follow us on LinkedIn for updates on new episodes and industry insights.

In this thought-provoking episode of "Made to Grow," we sit down with Sam Baynham, Managing Director of Conex Portal, a vibrant UK-wide community dedicated to connecting and empowering SME manufacturers and engineering companies. Sam sheds light on how peer-to-peer networking and collaboration are revolutionising the SME manufacturing sector, helping businesses overcome common challenges and seize new opportunities.Guest Overview: Sam BaynhamSam Baynham is at the forefront of fostering collaboration among SME manufacturers. With a background in mechanical engineering and extensive experience in supporting small businesses through the design-to-market journey, Sam found that connecting to the right people, with the right products or services to make this journey smooth and fast was challenging. This insight drove him to create Conex Portal, a community designed to help build strong, supportive networks that drive innovation and growth. His passion for connecting SME manufacturers and sharing best practices makes him a key player in the sector's ongoing evolution.Key Points The Role of Conex Portal in SME Manufacturing: Sam explains how Conex serves as an extension to SME manufacturing businesses, offering a platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and support without the hard sell. It aims to help SME manufacturers overcome isolation and operational challenges by connecting them with resources and expertise. Challenges Facing SME Manufacturers: Addressing issues like the manufacturing skills shortage, rising energy costs, and the need for digital transformation in manufacturing, Sam highlights how Conex is tackling these problems by fostering collaboration and sharing best practices among SME manufacturers. Real-world Success Stories in SME Manufacturing: Sam shares examples of how Conex members have benefited from collaborative projects, such as transitioning from traditional manufacturing methods to more efficient digital manufacturing processes, resulting in significant cost and time savings for SME manufacturers. Events and Engagement for SME Manufacturing Growth: Conex organises various events, including webinars, trade shows, and mastermind sessions, to encourage active participation and continuous learning among SME manufacturers. Education and Skills Development in Manufacturing: Conex is actively involved in outreach to schools and educational institutions to promote careers in manufacturing and bridge the skills gap, ensuring a steady influx of young talent into the SME manufacturing sector. Supportive Network for SME Manufacturers: The importance of creating a safe, confidential environment for SME manufacturers to share challenges and successes is a cornerstone of Conex's approach, helping businesses to thrive through mutual support and collaboration.Conclusion and Further ResourcesThis episode explores the collaborative spirit that is driving growth in UK manufacturing. Sam provides a compelling narrative on how SME manufacturers can leverage networking and shared expertise to navigate industry challenges. For more information about Conex Portal and to get involved, visit Conex-portal.com and follow Sam Baynham on LinkedIn.Join us in the next episode, where we explore digital transformation with Oliver Caunt of JCS Nuclear Solutions. We'll discuss their ambitious digital transformation project and the significant opportunities it unlocked for their business.Help Us Grow ‘Made To Grow’Stay connected with "Made to Grow" for more episodes on how UK manufacturers are thriving in a rapidly changing industry. Subscribe, share, and review our show to help us reach more listeners and continue providing valuable insights and guidance for the manufacturing community and follow Flowlens on LinkedIn for more insights into UK manufacturing!

Today, we're joined by Nathan Peele of Denatec, a high-tech manufacturing firm that, against all odds, soared from its inception to a turnover of over £3 million in just three years. As Denatec stands on the cusp of global expansion, Nathan reflects on the pivotal moments and strategies that propelled their journey and how they used the tumult of a global pandemic to their advantage. From their agility and customer-centric approach to their relentless pursuit of quality and their focus on sharing success with their team, Nathan's story is an inspiring and down-to-earth account of what it takes to scale a manufacturing firm. Guest Overview: Nathan Peele Nathan Peele, one of the driving forces behind Denatec, founded the company with his business partner and cultivated a culture of innovation, quality, and resilience in the firm. His passion for engineering and keen sense of market needs led to the creation of Denatec during one of the most challenging global crises the manufacturing world has ever experienced. With a background rooted in engineering and a diverse experience that spans CNC machining to designing scuba diving equipment, Nathan turned his broad experience into a laser-focused ambition to succeed. Key Points Rapid Growth and Strategic Agility: Denatec's journey from a two-person startup to a £3M turnover company showcases the power of strategic agility and responsiveness to market demands, even during the pandemic. Importance of ISO 9001 Certification: Nathan discusses how achieving ISO 9001 certification within three months underscored their commitment to quality and structured processes, setting a strong foundation for future growth. Customer-Centric Innovations: Nathan explains how Denatec's customer relationships, adaptability and capacity to swiftly introduce new products have driven innovation and growth. Navigating Pandemic Challenges: By capitalising on the pandemic-induced market shifts, Denatec not only survived but thrived, becoming a preferred supplier and solidifying its market position. Building Business Relationships: Nathan's approach to overcoming initial market restrictions and engaging with new markets illustrates the importance of trust, transparency, and proving capabilities to unfamiliar customers. Employee Engagement and Culture: Nathan discussed how Denatec’s company culture impacts their success. Maintaining Quality and Adhering to Standards: Rich and Nathan discuss the importance of simplifying processes to ensure consistent quality and some of the perils of overcomplex ISO Manuals. Future Growth and Expansion Plans: Nathan outlines Denatec's vision for continued growth and international expansion, including plans to diversify revenue streams, expand premises, and establish a U.S. office. Conclusion and Further Resources Nathan Peele's story with Denatec is a remarkable example of how dedication, strategic innovation, and a focus on quality can pave the way for extraordinary success. As Denatec prepares to scale new heights on the global stage, its journey inspires manufacturing firms navigating the complexities of growth and market dynamics. For those interested in learning more about Denatec or connecting with Nathan, follow the links below: Denatec Website Nathan Peele on LinkedIn We thank Nathan for sharing his insights and experiences and contributing to another fascinating discussion on "Made To Grow." Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast, leave a review, and follow us on social media to stay updated with the latest in manufacturing innovation and success stories. Join us next time as we explore more transformative journeys in the manufacturing industry.

In this insightful final episode of "Made to Grow" season one, we address a common pain point in the manufacturing industry: the isolation often felt by leaders in this sector and its impact on future growth. This episode introduces the Manufacturers' Alliance, an organisation that counters this isolation and facilitates knowledge sharing and industry collaboration by fostering robust peer networks. The Alliance operates primarily in the North of England, providing a platform for manufacturers to share experiences, challenges, and insights, thereby catalysing collective growth and innovation. Our guest, Gary Sheader, founder and Managing Director of The Manufacturers' Alliance, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the topic. He discusses the transformative power of peer networking, highlighting how such collaborations can improve decision-making, empower leadership development, and drive business growth. Key topics include the importance of a growth mindset in modern leadership, the role of effective marketing and customer relationship management, and the strategic advantage of data-driven decision-making. The episode also explores the concept of "making yourself redundant" as an important aim for business leaders, which can empower teams and free up leaders' ability to think strategically. This episode is packed with real-world insights for manufacturing leaders looking to navigate the complexities of the industry and drive their businesses forward. Key Points Why the Manufacturer's Alliance exists and its early development 01.39 - 04.58 The true value of peer networking for manufacturers 04.50 -07. 42 The Modern Leadership Scorecard and the Traits of a Leader 07.43 - 10.42 The Importance of marketing and customer relationships 10.43 - 14.57 The power of making yourself redundant 14.58 - 17.20Growth mindset for manufacturers 17.21 - 20.57 The importance of openness and sharing in peer networks 20.58 - 26.40 Data-based decision making for manufacturers 26.40 - 30.21 Final thoughts and next steps 30.22 - 34.10 Resources For more information and to connect with Gary, you can visit his LinkedIn profile. Additionally, you can follow the Manufacturers’ Alliance on LinkedIn here to stay updated with their latest initiatives. To benchmark your manufacturing leadership skills and receive personalised recommendations for professional development, take the Manufacturing Leadership Quiz available on the Manufacturers' Alliance website.

Are you an SME manufacturer in the UK still relying on spreadsheets and manual processes? If so, this episode of Made To Grow is essential listening. Mark Tooby, an accountant and expert in cloud-based systems, joins host Rich Dale to discuss the transformative power of digitalisation. Together they discuss the importance of financial literacy for leadership, staff engagement in change, the value of real-time data for decision-making, and much, much more. Learn how to cut costs, improve efficiency, and make informed decisions that will propel your SME manufacturing business into the future. Sections & Key Takeaways: 1. The Cloud Revolution [00:15:55 - 00:16:17] Mark Tooby explains how adopting cloud-based systems can transform business processes and improve decision-making. 2. The Journey to Financial Literacy [00:16:17 - 00:16:49] Rich and Mark discuss the importance of your team having a firm grasp on the financial aspects of the business, from purchasing to planning. 3. The Importance of Staff Buy-In [00:16:49 - 00:19:05] Mark emphasises that the key to successful digital transformation is getting your entire team on board from the get-go. 4. The Role of a Virtual Finance Director [00:19:37 - 00:23:21] Discover how a virtual finance director can provide invaluable insights and unbiased perspectives at a fraction of the cost of a typical FD and how the process works. 5. The Single Source Of Truth [00:23:21 - 00:26:12] Mark and Rich explore why real-time, reliable data is the backbone of any successful manufacturing business in today's fast-paced environment. 6. The Last Word [00:26:12 - 00:29:03] Short Description: Learn why having a unified, cloud-based system is non-negotiable for maintaining data integrity and making real-time decisions.

Welcome to another episode of "Made to Grow," the podcast for SME manufacturers, proudly brought to you by Flowlens, the simple and affordable MRP system. In this enlightening episode, we sit down with Verity Davidge, the Head of Policy at Make UK, an organisation that champions over 20,000 manufacturing companies across the UK. We delve into the transformative power of digitalisation, the challenges and opportunities in the UK manufacturing sector, and practical advice for SMEs looking to make a difference. Key Points Introduction (00:00:00) Get to know Verity Davidge, the Head of Policy at Make UK, an organisation that serves as the voice for manufacturing companies across England and Wales. Discover how Make UK aims to create a conducive business environment for manufacturers. The Digitalise to Decarbonise Report (00:05:45) Explore the latest report published by Make UK, which focuses on the digital transformation journey of manufacturers. Learn how 44% of manufacturers are already on the path to digitalisation and decarbonisation. Challenges in the Post-Pandemic, Pro-Brexit Era (00:10:20) Uncover the unique challenges that manufacturers face in the current socio-political landscape. From labour shortages to supply chain disruptions, find out what's affecting the industry. The Role of Digital Technologies in Reducing Energy Costs (00:15:30) Discover how digital technologies can be a game-changer in reducing energy costs for manufacturers. Verity shares insights into how companies have successfully reduced their energy bills through digitalisation. Supply Chain Vulnerabilities and Digital Solutions (00:20:50) Dive into the issue of supply chain vulnerabilities that have come under the spotlight in recent years. Learn how digital technologies can offer solutions for better monitoring and management. Advice for SME Manufacturers (00:27:10) Verity offers actionable advice for SME manufacturers looking to navigate the complexities of the current manufacturing landscape. From funding options to return on investment considerations, get practical tips to move forward. _______________________________ We hope you find this episode insightful and actionable. Don't forget to subscribe for more expert insights into the UK manufacturing sector! Get to know more about our guest Verity Davidge is Head of Policy at Make UK, the industry body representing over 20,000 manufacturers in England and Wales. You can keep in touch with her on her LinkedIn Page or follow Make UK on LinkedIn or at their website makeuk.org, which is packed with interesting information, reports and industry news.

In this episode of the Made to Grow podcast, Rich chats with Aneela Rose, the Managing Director of Rose Media Group, a B2B PR agency specialising in targeted media relations and marketing communications for UK manufacturing businesses. Aneela shares her insights on the fundamentals of PR and marketing comms and how they can benefit manufacturers. She also discusses the evolving landscape of PR in the digital era and offers valuable advice on building brand awareness and credibility. BROUGHT TO YOU BY FLOWLENS, THE AFFORDABLE, EASY TO USE MRP SYSTEM FOR SME MANUFACTURERS Key sections [00:00:00] Introduction Aneela’s background and passion for PR [00:02:00] What is PR for manufacturers? What is PR and how does it benefit B2B manufacturers The role of a PR agency [00:09:42] Common mistakes manufacturers make with PR Manufacturers need to understand what is and what isn’t PR [00:12:20] PR and advertising for manufacturers Earned vs paid media [00:13:34] Humanising your manufacturing brand Telling the story of your people The role of case studies for trade publications [00:17:03] Digital PR for manufacturers, SEO and PR Backlinks, domain authority and web traffic [00:23:24] Measuring the return on investment in PR Impressions, audience growth and other metrics for judging the efficacy of your PR campaign [00:27:21] Social media and PR for manufacturers The link between PR and social media for manufacturers [00:31:47] Final takeaway: How to get started with manufacturing PR The importance of diving in and getting started