AEMT Conference

Gary Downes

Industry Leader, EMiR Software

With over 30 years of experience in the electro-mechanical industry, Gary Downes has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of EMiR Software, guiding it through significant growth and strategic change. As the former Managing Director of Solutions in I.T., Gary oversaw the development of EMiR Software, a comprehensive job management solution designed for the sector, culminating in the successful sale of the business in 2024.

Gary’s industry insights are grounded in firsthand experience, having navigated the challenges of business growth, leadership transitions, and technological innovation. His deep commitment to the sector has been recognised with an honorary lifetime membership from the Association of Electrical and Mechanical Trades (AEMT), reflecting his longstanding contributions, including a term as AEMT President.

Gary will share his perspective on the importance of succession planning, business evolution, and lessons learned from selling a business.

Jack Dunning

Finance Director, IPS Newcastle

Jack Dunning has served as Finance Director at Houghton International since 2016, playing a pivotal role in the company's financial strategy and growth. With a background as a Chartered Accountant, Jack brings extensive experience from his tenure at Deloitte in London and New York, as well as his leadership roles at the British Private Equity & Venture Capital Association (BVCA).

In 2023, Jack was instrumental in the successful acquisition of Houghton International by Integrated Power Services (IPS), a significant milestone that expanded IPS's footprint into the UK and European markets. His expertise in corporate finance and optimised management information was crucial in navigating the complexities of this cross-border transaction.

At the AEMT Conference, Jack will share insights on succession planning and the financial considerations involved in selling a business, drawing from his firsthand experience in leading Houghton International through a transformative period.

George Knowlton

Managing Director, Knowlton & Newman (A Rubix Company)

George Knowlton serves as the Managing Director of Knowlton & Newman Ltd., a specialist provider of electro-mechanical repair services across the south of England. Under his leadership, the company has continued to deliver high-quality services to industries including utilities, marine, pharmaceutical, food, aggregates, and power generation.

In 2021, Knowlton & Newman was acquired by Rubix UK, Europe's largest supplier of industrial maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) products and services. This strategic acquisition aimed to expand Rubix's engineering capabilities and establish a southern regional hub within its UK network.

George has played a pivotal role in integrating Knowlton & Newman into the Rubix Group, ensuring the preservation of the company's core values while leveraging the resources and expertise of a larger organization.

At the AEMT Conference, George will share his insights on navigating new ownership, discussing the challenges and opportunities that come with being part of a larger group, and how to maintain company culture and service excellence during such transitions.

Mr Graeme Rafferty

OEUK

Graeme Rafferty is a Supply Chain Manager at Offshore Energies UK (OEUK), the leading body for the UK’s integrating offshore energies industry. OEUK’s membership includes over 400 organisations with an interest in offshore oil, gas, carbon capture and storage, hydrogen, and wind, with all focused on safely providing cleaner, fuel and power to the UK. His objectives involve leading forums and industry initiatives that aim to ensure that the UKCS is a competitive and attractive place to do business including promoting adherence to OEUK’s Supply Chain Principles. Graeme has an MSc in purchasing and supply chain management, from Robert Gordon University. Graeme previously worked for SLB and gained experience in several different supply chain roles covering European operations, including as a Sourcing Specialist for the Field Equipment and Services category and as Supplier Manager for the Reservoir Performance division.

Shaun Sutton

Co-Founder, Central Group

Shaun Sutton is the co-founder of the EDC Group, encompassing EDC Scotland, EDC North East, and EDC Air Compressors. With a career spanning over two decades, Shaun has been instrumental in establishing EDC as a leading provider of ABB variable speed drives, motors, and control gear across the UK.

In 2024, Shaun, alongside his co-founder Nick Brown, transitioned EDC into an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), selling 100% of the company shares to the trust. This move was designed to preserve the company's culture, ensure job security for employees, and empower the team to drive the business forward. Shaun continues to provide guidance to the EDC team, supporting the company's growth under its new ownership structure.

At the AEMT Conference, Shaun will share his experiences and insights on succession planning, discussing the motivations behind transitioning to an EOT and the benefits it brings to both employees and the business as a whole.