AVW appoints new Operations and Business Development Manager

AVW Fabrications has appointed Ian Lonsdale-Ellis as its new Operations and Business Development Manager to support the next phase of growth at the Leicester-based manufacturer. 

AVW provides laser cutting, sheet metal fabrication and finishing services for industrial and infrastructure customers across the UK.

Moving from his previous role as Production Manager at sister company Michael Smith Switchgear Ltd (MSSL), Ian will lead operational improvements at AVW. 

The move reflects the strength of the wider group, deepening collaboration between AVW and MSSL.

A key part of Ian’s role will be to lead AVW’s work towards ISO 9001 accreditation, alongside projects on layout and health and safety, to underpin sustainable, long-term growth for AVW’s customers across the UK.

“I’m excited to hit the ground running at AVW and to bring across best practice that will help us grow alongside MSSL,” he says. 

“I’m all in on AVW - I want to build on what already works, stay involved with MSSL, and make the changes that will allow AVW to reach its full potential.”

Bringing experience from MSSL to AVW

Ian’s appointment draws on experience gained within the group, including time with multi award-winning switchgear manufacturer MSSL.

He has been closely involved in modernising production processes at MSSL and supporting the company’s focus on quality and reliability in low-voltage switchgear assemblies and control panels. 

That experience will now help AVW refine and document its own workflows, across laser cutting, fabrication and finishing.

Key priorities include:

• Leading ISO 9001 accreditation work at AVW
• Reviewing factory layout to support efficient flow
• Identifying health and safety improvements to support the team

These changes will help AVW continue to deliver responsive, high-quality fabrication services for industrial and infrastructure customers, complementing MSSL’s electrical engineering offer.