Illston and Robson Ltd Appoints Advisory Board to Drive Innovation and Strengthen the Future of British Manufacturing
Illston and Robson Ltd, one of the UK’s oldest and most respected mechanical linkage manufacturers, proudly announces the appointment of its inaugural Advisory Board. All appointed members are experienced participants of the Veblen Director Programme and bring decades of strategic, operational, and leadership expertise to support the company’s continued evolution as a digitally enabled, forward-focused leader in British manufacturing.
Singapore, 17th Dec 2025– Illston and Robson Ltd, one of the UK’s oldest and most respected mechanical linkage manufacturers, proudly announces the appointment of its inaugural Advisory Board. All appointed members are experienced participants of the Veblen Director Programme and bring decades of strategic, operational, and leadership expertise to support the company’s continued evolution as a digitally enabled, forward-focused leader in British manufacturing.
Established in 1908, Illston and Robson has played a defining role in the development of the British Standard coupling – used across all UK HGVs and widely adopted in agricultural and rail applications. Today, the company stands as a leading Tier 1 and Tier 2 supplier to global manufacturers including Daimler (Mercedes-Benz), Scania, Caterpillar, and Volvo. With a mission to secure the long-term success of local manufacturing and provide fulfilling employment for generations to come, Illston and Robson continues to adapt its operations, people, and processes for the digital age.
The formation of the Advisory Board marks a significant milestone in the company’s long-term strategy. The board will provide guidance across innovation, operational resilience, digitisation, and scalable growth – ensuring Illston and Robson remains a trusted, high-performance manufacturer for decades ahead.
“Forming our Advisory Board marks a significant milestone for Illston & Robson as we continue strengthening the business for the future,” said Claire Reid, Co-Owner of Illston and Robson Ltd. “For over 100 years, this company has built its reputation on reliability, precision engineering, and long-standing partnerships. As we enter our next phase of growth and expansion, it’s essential that we surround the business with the experience, guidance, and strategic oversight needed to scale with confidence.”
“Our Advisory Board brings together proven leaders who will help us sharpen our long-term direction, enhance operational resilience, and ensure Illston & Robson remains a trusted, high-performing manufacturer for decades to come.”
Appointed Advisory Board Members
Elton Leung – Chair of the Board
With deep experience in corporate governance, strategic transformation, and scaling industrial operations, Elton brings leadership that will guide Illston and Robson through its next chapter of innovation and growth.
“It’s an honour to join Illston and Robson as Chair of the Advisory Board. Together with the leadership team and my fellow advisors, we will build on the company’s century-long legacy—driving innovation, expanding strategic partnerships, and ensuring it thrives as a leader in UK manufacturing.”
Penny Wilkie – Board Advisor
A seasoned advisor with expertise in people development, organisational culture, and forward-focused leadership, Penny will support Illston and Robson as it strengthens its workforce, customer relationships, and long-term strategy.
“I am delighted to join the Advisory Board of Illston & Robson. Their blend of tradition and innovation and their commitment to forward thinking is inspiring, and I am looking forward to supporting their continued growth.”
Graham Borthwick – Board Advisor
With extensive experience in supply chain and strategic transformation, Graham brings insight to help Illston and Robson modernise and scale processes leveraging its proven history of manufacturing leadership.
“I look forward to contributing to Illston & Robson’s strategic transformation, building on its rich manufacturing heritage while guiding the company toward its future goals.”
Petra Demarez – Board Advisor
Petra brings a strong background in operational excellence, scalable systems, and customer success—supporting Illston and Robson as it strengthens its service delivery and prepares for future expansion.
“Joining the Advisory Board allows me to support Illston and Robson’s journey ahead. Its unique mix of heritage and ambition makes it exciting to contribute to this momentum.”
Tim Lyle – Board Advisor
A global executive with a track record of scaling industrial P&Ls and driving enterprise transformation, Tim brings deep expertise in governance, commercial innovation, and digital adoption. He will advise the Board on modernizing operations and capitalizing on new market opportunities to ensure long-term value creation.
“Illston & Robson is a cornerstone of British industry. I am eager to help the Board combine operational excellence with the innovation required to secure long-term value.”
About Illston and Robson Ltd
Established in 1908, Illston and Robson has been manufacturing mechanical linkage products for nearly 120 years and played a key role in the British Standard coupling used across UK HGVs. Today, the company is a leadingTier 1 and Tier 2 supplier to global manufacturers including Daimler (Mercedes-Benz), Scania, Caterpillar, and Volvo, demonstrating that small-scale British manufacturing remains vital in the modern industrial landscape. Committed to precision, reliability, and forward-focused innovation, Illston and Robson continues to evolve for the digital age while upholding its Midlands heritage and values, ensuring the long-term success of local manufacturing and fulfilling employment for generations to come.
About the Veblen Director Programme
The Veblen Director Programme empowers executives and professionals with the skills and knowledge to excel in board and advisory roles. Through training, education, and a global network of skilled board members, Veblen supports organisations in navigating complex challenges, driving sustainable growth, and building impactful leadership teams.
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Franziska Grobler – franzi@financialmedia.group
Company Details
Organization: Financial Media Group Ltd
Contact Person: Franziska Grobler
Website: https://www.financialmedia.group/
Email: Send Email
Contact Number: +6584555350
Address: 51 Goldhill Plaza
Address 2: #07-10/11
City: Singapore
State: — None —
Country: Singapore
Release Id: 17122539144