Ficep UK appoints new Managing Director

Ficep UK has promoted Richard Clark to managing director to take the business into its next chapter as it continues to strengthen its position as the UK’s leading steel fabrication machinery supplier.

Previously operations director at the business, Richard’s appointment to managing director will help ensure Ficep UK has local leadership ready to respond quickly and effectively to the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Richard brings almost 40 years’ experience of the engineering industry to the role, which started with a four-year mechanical and electrical apprenticeship in 1987 with Guest & Chrimes in his hometown of Rotherham. His early career included roles as foundry engineer, shift engineer, and service engineer before he took his first step into management with an engineering manager role at Domino Printing Sciences in 2001. He then went onto an internal promotion to operations manager at a subsidiary of the business.

After being introduced to Ficep UK’s previous MD Mark Jones in 2015, Richard was offered the position of service manager at the business. Since then, he has progressed to operations manager, operations director and now managing director of Ficep UK. His expertise played a central role in the company’s after-sales service becoming one its strongest competitive advantages in the UK market. Since Richard joined Ficep UK, their after-sales revenue has tripled up to 2024-25.

Richard says: “I attribute a lot of my success over the last decade with Ficep UK to the fantastic team we’ve built, one that our customers value highly. I’m looking forward to leading the business going forward and continuing to develop and invest in the fantastic talent we have that will ensure the business continues to grow and achieve the success it deserves.”

“Having started out as an apprentice, I believe in providing opportunities for our people to learn and develop and will continue to support those stepping into the industry. I’ve always enjoyed building relationships and providing fantastic support as part of the business. I’m pleased that I’ll still have the chance to get out and meet customers in my new role as managing director.”

A key contact for customers, Richard will continue to work with financial director Pam and sales director Chris Berriman as the UK business continues to innovate to meet the demands of the industry.

Christian Colombo, CEO FICEP SpA, said: “This is an important step for the future of our organisation in the UK. After more than 10 years of dedication and professional growth within Ficep, Richard has consistently demonstrated strong leadership, strategic thinking, and deep knowledge of our customers and operations.

“His journey - from service manager to operations director - is a clear example of commitment, capability, and value creation. I am confident that Richard will lead the company with energy, competence, and a collaborative spirit.”