Simon had intended to become a professional boxer but, after injury forced him to change direction, he followed his father, grandfather and great grandfather into the leather industry. He now has 25 experience in the leather industry, having joined as an apprentice at the age of 16 and then completing his training as a leather technologist at the University of Northampton. He subsequently worked at a number of tanneries before joining the Scottish Leather Group as a technician and working his way up to the position of technical director at the Bridge of Weir Leather Company.

As technical director, he has responsibility for technical development of the company’s products and leads a team that ensures that their products are delivered to the customer, to the right requirements and on time. This is a challenging and stimulating role, particularly given the very high requirements imposed by the company’s main customer, the automotive manufacturers. No two days are the same as he must meet the changes in the customer’s requirements and legislation while maintaining quality standards. However, as Simon says, ‘Challenges make us better’ and he is very proud of the work that he does.

His advice to anyone interested in a career in the leather industry would be, ‘Go for it’. He believes the industry still offers a career for life with massive opportunities for travel and development and many career path options for someone who wants a different, challenging and specialised job. As he says, ‘Leather is here to stay, that’s for sure’.