Meet the Team
Derek Read - Operations Manager
What name/nickname do you prefer to be called?
I answer to most names (some polite some not) but prefer Derek, Del or Delboy.
If you could write your own job title that best describes what you do here, what would it be?
My official title is Operations Manager, however it is difficult to put a simple tag on what my title should be as the role is quite extensive. I would probably go for a Mediator between the different departments that interact with the operations area. This includes the delivery of several key functions within the company along with system improvements and generally sweeping up! So maybe the title should be General All Round Manager .
What do you enjoy about the work you do?
Management in a manufacturing environment still gives me a buzz. It’s great to be part of a company that still manufactures in the UK using traditional methods and isn't merely a warehouse for equipment made in the Far East. Manufacturing products in the UK gives us the freedom to innovate and provide equipment that is tailored to what the customer wants and often on a short lead time.
What are your hobbies?
I'm a collector and hoarder (if anyone wants to buy a Telescope, I've got 3 spare!). I have 4 primary hobbies which I take up and put down at different times. I spent several years researching the family history, having taken that back to the 17th century until any additional information became scarce. The family history investigation lead into delving into the family's military background and this led to me collecting WW1 UK cap badges of which I have an extensive collection.
My real passions though are Geology and Railways. I am a members of several societies and enjoy nothing better than hammering a rock face (where allowed) or walking/riding on both national and preserved rail networks. Though both these activities have been rather curtailed in the last 12 months.
What volunteering or passion projects do you do outside work?
With family commitments and grand children have little time for direct volunteering, my main support is through donations.
PS for my sins also a season ticket holder at MUFC and have been an avid supporter since 1968 (giving my age away) and ensure all the grandchildren are members before their father signs them up for Liverpool.
After several years of research Derek has managed to trace his family history back to the 17th century.
An avid supporter of MUFC, Derek also enjoys Geology and Railways.
