News: New chairman for Special Metals Forum

Sheffield Forgemasters' Peter Birtles has been appointed chairman of the Special Metals Forum (SMF) - a national organisation which improves the global competitive advantage of special metals manufacturers.

The SMF is the membership arm of Rotherham-based NAMTEC (the National Metals Technology Centre) and counts 100 regional, national and international metals and manufacturing companies as members. Its aim is to improve the competitive advantage of special metals manufacturers, processors and users, opening up new global business opportunities for its members.

Peter, 63, is non-executive Group Board Director for Sheffield Forgemasters International and has over 40 years' experience in the steel and engineering sectors. He takes over from Tony Pedder who has stepped down from the position after serving a three year term.

Alan Partridge, Chief Executive of NAMTEC, said: "We are delighted to welcome Peter to the role of Chair for the Special Metals Forum. He is a high profile figure within the steel and engineering sector and has a wealth of experience in the special metals industry. We look forward to the positive impact that his chairmanship will bring to the Forum.

"Tony Pedder has done a fantastic job in leading the Special Metals Forum since its inception in 2007 and we wish him well as he steps down from the position as Chair."

Peter also runs his own management consultancy firm working closely with major players in the steel and heavy engineering industry. He previously spent ten years as Managing Director of Sheffield Forgemasters and before this as Production Director for five years. Previous to this, he held the position of Production Director at Firth Rixson Group after 15 years at Osborn Steels in Sheffield.

Peter said: "The forum brings together the strengths, unique resources and capabilities of the special metals supply chain. Producers, fabricators, component manufacturers and original equipment manufacturers are all represented as well as research organisations and the wider academic community.

"The special metals sector has never been more important to the UK's increasingly knowledge-based economy. The aerospace, energy and bio-medical sectors are all critically dependent on special metals for their success.

"I am delighted to have been given the opportunity to chair this forum and be able to contribute my ideas and help develop market strategy at this critical time for British manufacturing."

Special Metals Forum website

Images: Special Metals Forum