Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your role as an industry leader?
My journey in the overhead crane industry began at the age of 17. I’m proud to be timeserved, having worked my way up from the shop floor to the boardroom. I started my career in 2006 as an apprentice Overhead Crane Engineer at Lifting Solutions before moving to Professional Lifting Services (PLS), where I spent nine years as a qualified, electrically biased crane engineer.
It was during my time at PLS that I first experienced the commercial side of the business. I was given the opportunity to explore sales and operations, and it immediately felt like my true calling. In 2018, I was promoted to site services manager and, shortly after, I took a significant step forward in my career by joining Chesterfield Crane Company as operations manager in 2019.
From the outset, I was given the autonomy to lead operations and implement change. Within two years, I was promoted to general manager. At that time, Chesterfield Cranes had a reputation for supplying refurbished cranes at low prices with quick lead times. With my background as an engineer, this didn’t sit right with me. I believed there was a better way – to offer brand new cranes with extended warranties, competitive pricing and industryleading delivery times. My vision was to take Chesterfield Cranes from a used crane supplier to a serious contender in the new crane market.
In 2021, Chesterfield Cranes was acquired by the Technical Cranes Group, and I was humbled when the group’s owner, Jordan Simpson, placed his trust in me to run the business. I was given full strategic and operational control and appointed to the board of directors. That support enabled me to rebrand the company, restructure the team and shape a business that aligned with my vision of quality, reliability and long-term client relationships.
One of the pivotal moments was leading our acquisition of Pelloby Premier Cranes. Now a division of Chesterfield Cranes, Pelloby continues to manufacture high-quality British manufactured overhead and jib cranes. With a rich heritage and strong brand recognition, our goal is to restore Pelloby to its former status as the go-to name in jib cranes – not just in the UK, but globally and that is well under way.
Our success is also due in no small part to the strength of our partnership with GH Cranes & Components. I’ve developed a fantastic working relationship and friendship with GH’s UK area manager, Mikel Ugarte. Today, Chesterfield Cranes is proud to be the UK’s largest collaborator with GH, supplying nearly 80 cranes per year using GH components – and that figure continues to grow in line with our ambitions.
Sometimes, the journey has been difficult and testing, but I’ve never had to face it alone. The progress I’ve made and the position I’m in today have only been achievable thanks to the unwavering support of the incredible team around me.
I work most closely with my accounts manager, Laura Gascoyne, who quite literally sees me at my best and my worst – we share the same office. She has been an absolute rock during high-pressure moments, and her advice and guidance, particularly on the financial side, have been invaluable. A lot of what I do simply wouldn’t be possible without her. We both share a strong focus on attention to detail and efficiency, and we work relentlessly to ensure Chesterfield Crane remains successful and reputable. Over time, through the pressures, challenges, and successes we’ve shared, Laura has also become one of my closest friends – a friendship that’s grown naturally from the trust, respect and countless hours we’ve spent working side by side.
I must also mention our site services manager, Kurt Russell, whose expertise and deep industry knowledge keep our planning and operations running seamlessly. Then there’s Lewis Brookes, our project manager – easily the most meticulous I’ve worked with – who ensures our projects are executed flawlessly. Our design team, Gareth Attwood and Luis Carpi, continuously turn vision into reality with precision and innovation. And, of course, our sales team, Dave Hickman and Chris Mee, who play a critical role in driving the business forward.
Beyond these key individuals, there are so many other staff members – too many to name – who contribute daily to our shared success. Every single person plays a role. I may be leading the business, but I’m still just one cog in a very well-oiled machine. Together, we make it happen.
Every person at Chesterfield Cranes shares the same vision: to supply quality cranes and provide exceptional service to every client – from small family-run firms to global corporations. We treat every project with the same care, attention and respect.
While we’ve come a long way, we know the journey isn’t over. Our focus remains on continual growth, innovation and maintaining the humility and gratitude that has brought us this far. We’re building something special here, and I’m incredibly proud to be a part of it.
Can you tell us how you got into this industry and why?
I was naturally introduced to the industry through my dad, who was a crane engineer and manager at Lifting Solutions. He was the one who encouraged me to follow this path, always telling me that if I applied myself properly, I could build a lifelong career in the overhead crane industry – and he was absolutely right.
What makes your company stand out?
I believe it’s the personal touch that truly sets us apart. While we’re a growing business, we remain a humble and grateful SME with big ambitions. Our clients often comment on the strong sense of unity and togetherness within our team – and that’s something we’re incredibly proud of.
Despite my role as director, I make myself available 24/7 to support our clients, and I think that level of commitment gives them real confidence in us. They know we’ll put 100% into every aspect of their order.
Internally, our team operates like a family. We drive each other forward and collaborate closely, with several strong working relationships across the group. That mutual support and drive ultimately benefit our clients – customer satisfaction is embedded in the ethos of everything we do.
What do you like about the industry?
I absolutely love this industry – it’s not just my career, it’s also my passion and I would go as far to say it’s my hobby. What I enjoy most is the competitive nature of the market and the thrill that comes with winning new orders, no matter the size. Every project is different, which keeps things exciting and challenging. I especially enjoy working closely with clients to ensure they get exactly what they need, with our full support and guidance throughout the process. Of course, none of this would be possible without the incredible team I have around me.
Why should people want to join and work in this industry?
I genuinely believe this industry offers a ‘job for life’. There are so many opportunities for growth, development and progression. While it’s a vital part of the manufacturing sector, it’s still a relatively niche field – one that isn’t often presented as a career option in schools.
That means trained, competent people are always in high demand. For anyone coming into the industry with drive and passion, the possibilities are endless. It’s a sector where hard work is noticed, and ambition is rewarded.
What are your expectations for the industry going forward? Any trends or challenges that you foresee?
I expect the industry to continue growing. Lifting equipment and overhead cranes are essential to the manufacturing sector and play a role – directly or indirectly – in almost every industry. As long as the UK maintains and strengthens its position as an industrial and manufacturing nation, companies in the overhead crane sector will continue to benefit.
Of course, like any industry, there will be challenges – from supply chain pressures to evolving safety regulations and increasing client expectations. But with innovation, adaptability and a strong focus on service, I believe the industry is well-positioned for continued success.
Are there any projects or initiatives that your company is working on that you’re excited about?
Yes, absolutely – although I can’t give too much away for competitive reasons! What I can say is that we’ve developed strong partnerships with several structural steel manufacturers and construction companies across the UK, many of whom are experiencing rapid growth due to the surge in construction projects nationwide. These businesses rely heavily on overhead cranes to scale their operations and meet demand, and we’re proud to be playing a key role in supporting that expansion.
