Industry chemist named in manufacturing top 100

Michael Manktelow, chief chemist at Ideal Manufacturing has been selected in The Manufacturer Top 100 2023 as a Young Pioneer. The Manufacturer’s annual awards for the 100 most inspirational individuals working in UK industry were announced in June at a gala reception at the NEC in Birmingham.

Phillip Kalli, managing director at Ideal said: “I am really proud to see Michael’s hard work and brilliant attitude to everything he does in the lab recognised in this way!” Michael Manktelow said: “There is satisfaction in knowing the complexities of how something is made – almost like you are a member of a secret club. I am grateful to have the opportunity to make a difference in how products are made and consumed.”

In 2018, Manktelow was also awarded the LADA – the Laundry and Drycleaning Award – for Trainee of the Year. The Manufacturer Top 100 project, run by The Manufacturer magazine, celebrates its tenth anniversary in 2023 and publicly recognises the most dynamic leaders and innovators in manufacturing. Soon after the start of this decade, several academic and parliamentary studies identified a clear lack of visible role models within manufacturing. In response The Manufacturer Top 100 project launched in 2014 to promote the exciting, well-paid and fulfilling careers that exist in the sector. Awardees are drawn from every walk of UK industry, and at any stage of their career, from top floor to shop floor. From Young Pioneers who are establishing a new generation of makers in UK industry, to Inspiring Leaders and Drivers of Cultural Change to the Innovators and Unsung Heroes, these are the people who are helping make UK manufacturing the innovation sector it is today.

They are selected from hundreds of nominations for the examples they set to draw young people into the sector; 100 unique and uplifting stories of struggle, grit, determination and success against all the odds, personal tales of individuals helping to drive UK manufacturing forward – and to change popular perceptions of careers in industry.

Joe Bush, editor of The Manufacturer and The Manufacturer Top 100 publication commented, “It’s been a pleasure talking to some of this year’s intake and our judging panel, and listening to the passion for the manufacturing industry in the UK. “They say that if you find something you love doing, you’ll never work another day in your life and it’s clear that for so many, a career in manufacturing means so much more than a job.”

Michael Manktelow, chief chemist at Ideal Manufacturing