Leaders' Blog

Seizing stability: manufacturing’s moment in a post-election UK

With the Labour Party’s decisive victory, a new chapter of stability is promised after years of political and economic turmoil. “I congratulate Sir Keir Starmer on leading his party to a decisive general election victory. Business will welcome such a clear result and an end to the political and economic instability of the last few years,” said Stephen Phipson, Chief Executive of Make UK. “Manufacturers stand ready to work with the new government and all stakeholders as a matter of urgency to help deliver this” he added.

Stephen’s words reflect a broader industry sentiment – this is the time to bring long-needed investments forward and collaborate on a strategy that ensures sustained progress.

Leadership beyond the boardroom: the call for bold visionaries

Today’s manufacturing leaders are expected to do more than manage – they must lead with vision. Andrea Wilson, Director of Hone-All and a key figure in the Support UK Manufacturing movement, did not mince words: “The only thing we can do now is hope that the Labour Party will keep their promise of working with businesses to ensure growth and prosperity for the UK.” She stressed the need for decisive action, saying: “Hopefully, they will quickly implement their commitments to manufacturing, including a cohesive and long-term industrial strategy and the formation of an industrial council—hopefully with SME representation.”

Andrea’s push for a Manufacturing Champion underscores the demand for leaders who can not only navigate change but also advocate fiercely for the sector at the highest levels.

Navigating turbulence: turning manufacturing’s challenges into wins

The path ahead is strewn with challenges – from a critical skills shortage to complex international trade dynamics. Rachel Eade, Chair of the UK Metals Council, highlighted the urgency, saying: “We must ensure we continue the important debate with government and civil servants to recognise and actively support manufacturing across the country.” She also pointed to the pressing need for workforce upskilling: “There is important work to do on international trade arrangements and the myriad of regulations and tariffs that stifle our exports.”

Equally, Stephen Morley, President of the Confederation of British Metalforming (CBM), called for a bold, long-term strategy. “We would love to see a long-term industrial strategy that plays to the UK’s strengths and acknowledges the challenges we face,” he said, pushing for the appointment of a dedicated minister for manufacturing to drive these initiatives forward.

Strategic priorities: turning promises into action

As manufacturing leaders chart the future, several strategic imperatives stand out:

1. Skills overhaul: rethinking workforce investmentThe pressing need for a review of the Apprenticeship Levy and more flexible funding for technical courses is clear. “There needs to be more creativity and an ability to allow manufacturers to spend it on different types of technical courses that they specifically need,” Morley emphasised, underscoring the need for a workforce that meets the sector’s evolving demands.
2. Infrastructure & innovation: building for the next decadeInfrastructure represents a critical opportunity for growth. Davie Carns, CEO of NIS Group, was direct: “We would like to see an early statement of intent from Labour to commit to investment in infrastructure and supporting the construction industry.”
3. Sustainability shift: leading the charge to net zeroAs the sector moves towards net zero goals, leaders like Glynn Williams of Grundfos are clear: “This government should consider extending boiler and insulation schemes to include cost-effective and easily implementable solutions such as circulator pumps, thermostatic radiator valves, and pipe insulation.” The manufacturing industry must lead in sustainability, adopting innovations that drive both environmental and economic benefits.

As the UK manufacturing sector navigates this new political landscape, the role of bold, visionary leadership is more critical than ever. The path forward demands not just adaptation but proactive transformation. Now is the moment for leaders to step up, leverage the political shift and steer their organisations toward long-term success.

To be part of the conversation and drive the future of UK manufacturing, apply for a place at the 16th annual Manufacturing Leaders’ Summit – the gathering of the industrial elite and those ready to lead the industry through the next parliament and beyond.