Well hello there, lovely Made In members! My name's Vikki Whitehead-Smith, and I'm absolutely delighted to be the newest face at our head office, right here in the heart of Birmingham. Now, before we go any further, let's get one thing straight: I'm Midlands through and through, with a good old working-class manufacturing background that I am fiercely, unapologetically proud of. It's truly in my bones.

For the past eleven years, I've been deeply involved in the world of engineering, running my own small non-ferrous foundry. We specialized in the ancient art of sand-casting, a process rich in history. We also did a basic level of finishing in-house. I actually stepped into this business, which was originally my dad’s, at the age of 23 to help out during a period of modernization. My fresh approach managed to increase both orders and turnover. By 2016, I was made a partner and essentially handed the reins, becoming the main overseer of all aspects of the business.

A Chapter Closes, A New One Begins

Now, every journey has its challenges, and ours, unfortunately, led to a very long, drawn-out period of uncertainty. Walsall Council placed a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) on our land and building. If you understand the nature of foundries, you'll know that relocation would never have been possible, so this outcome was, to some extent, inevitable. In May this year, with a heavy heart, we were forced out of business. Suddenly, at 35, I found myself unemployed and starting over again.

Before the foundry, my working life involved stints in retail and hospitality. While those jobs taught me a lot, they weren't realistically where I saw myself now, especially with my own family to consider; flexibility was an issue. More importantly, I didn't want to turn my back completely on what I now see as my identity: the manufacturing world. I've learned so much about the industry, as well as gaining practical skills within metal founding, and it seemed a shame to let go of this completely. Especially when it has been in my family’s blood for so long. My paternal grandad was a pattern maker, a trade he taught my dad, who then naturally progressed into the engineering of metals.

Beyond my professional background, I also dedicate time to volunteering as a first responder with the Salvation Army's Anti-Trafficking and Modern Slavery unit. This role, though demanding, is profoundly rewarding. It has offered me a unique and critical sense of perspective on life, allowing me to provide immediate support to those who have experienced unimaginable hardship.

Why Made In Feels Like Home

Then, an opportunity presented itself with the Made In Group. I truly believe I'm a great fit here because I've seen the manufacturing sector from the other side. What's already clear is that the themes and issues I dealt with as a director of our small family business are, though scaled up, very similar and relatable to me among our members. I also think that my approachable and down-to-earth manner will resonate with everyone across the platform, and the fact that I love a good chat is sure to help. As part of a Membership Engagement initiative, I’ll be the first point of contact for ensuring members are truly getting the most out of their involvement within our group. I’ll be attending and supporting as many events as I can, and if there are any questions or feedback around these events, I’ll be on hand to help.

Championing British Manufacturing

I understand on a deeper level the importance of British manufacturing, and the wider effect that successes within the industry can have on all of us living in Britain today. The British are and have always been leaders in manufacturing, helped along by our deep-seated pride and determination, and a healthy dose of resilience.

I am so excited to be on board with Made In, and absolutely love that as an organization, we are key to helping champion the British manufacturing industry. I would love to think that anyone across the platform going forward can come to me for a chat whenever they like, and hope that you all feel you can. I look forward to meeting each and every one of you that I haven’t yet, and getting to know better those that I have.