After an incredible 50 years with the British Engines Group, Paul Smith, Managing Director of Tyne Pressure Testing, is preparing to step into retirement. His career has spanned decades of change, growth and innovation, both within the business and across the wider industry.
From his early days as a Turner, to becoming Managing Director of Tyne Pressure Testing, Paul has played a key role in shaping the company into what it is today.
In this interview, he reflects on his journey, the people and moments that defined his career and what lies ahead…
A Career Worth Celebrating
Before joining the Group, Paul completed an apprenticeship as a Heavy Machine Shop Turner at C.A Parsons. He later joined British Engines in 1976, as a Turner.
“I was always interested in technology growing up, so when I heard rumours about British Engines getting NC and CNC machines I had to apply. I got a role as a standard Turner as that’s where my experience was, but my goal was to become a CNC Machinist.”
Over the years, his role evolved significantly, progressing from a CNC Operator, Production Engineer, and Assembly and Test Manager, to Director of Operations at group company BEL Valves, and eventually Managing Director of Tyne Pressure Testing.
Reflecting on his time with the Group, Paul highlights a few achievements he is particularly proud of: “I’ve always been keen to develop myself and I was lucky enough to complete a BTEC and Master’s Degree, as well as other courses such as NEBOSH and IEMA. I think that’s why I’ve been here so long, it’s always fulfilled my need to grow.”
Among these, moving into a management role from production stands out as a key highlight: “When I was younger, I was always more comfortable around the machines than I was people, but moving into management really helped me to push on and learn so much about dealing with different people from employees to customers.”
Defining Moments and Milestones
Reaching 50 years with one company is a remarkable achievement and for Paul a combination of factors has kept him motivated throughout his career: “The support I’ve had from my managers over the years was a big part of helping me develop, giving me opportunities to grow and making sure I was always recognised for doing a good job.
Paul pictured with British Engines in 1989-99, second row from the back and six along from the left.
“I never backed away from a challenge, and I felt like I was someone people could rely on. They appreciated what I did and I appreciated what they have done for me.”
Paul also recognised the people who have influenced his journey along the way: “I’ve worked with so many great people, including former Managing Director of British Engines, Ron Dodd MBE (now Engineering Consultant at British Engines), who I’ve known for 50 years. I’ve learnt so much from him. He still gives me good advice to this day. I’ve known Richard Dodd, CEO of British Engines, since he was a young lad. I’m so pleased for the progress he’s made along with Jonathan and Alex Lamb, it’s so well deserved.”
With many incredible achievements, Paul’s most rewarding moment of his career came in 2016 when he was asked to help with the setup of Tyne Pressure Testing.
“It took two years to make the Tyne Pressure Testing site operational. I’m not actually sure how we managed to fit in all the equipment, but we did!
“Then in 2018 when I thought I would be heading back to my role at BEL Valves, the opportunity came to become the General Manager at Tyne Pressure Testing, and I took it without a second thought. I was able to carry on doing what I loved and alongside a great team.”
While he is looking forward to the future, there are aspects of the role he knows he will miss: “Work and the British Engines Group have been such a large part of my life, retirement is going to create a vacuum that I’m going to have to fill somehow. But I’ve got to know some tremendous people over the years, some of which have retired now or moved on, and some who only recently joined the team, I will miss it all.”
Saying Goodbye After 50 Years
As he prepares for the next chapter, Paul is looking forward to spending more time with his family.
“If there is anyone who has paid the price for my devotion to this company, it has been my wife and kids. It’s time for me to enjoy more time with them, although my wife still thinks I’ll bottle retiring!”
Drawing on 50 years of experience, we asked Paul what advice he would give to those starting out in the industry:
“If you want to be the Managing Director one day, tell someone and find a way to get there. Keep learning, work hard and don’t be afraid to dream big.
“There are so many amazing opportunities at the British Engines Group. Whatever aspect of engineering you’re interested in, you’ll be able to find something for you.”
The Next Chapter Begins
After five decades of dedication, leadership and commitment, Paul leaves behind a lasting legacy at Tyne Pressure Testing, one that will continue to shape the business for years to come.
He added: “I wish nothing but success for Tyne Pressure Testing and British Engines. It’s great to see how they’ve progressed in the 50 years I’ve been here and I hope the same growth continues for the next 50 to 100 years and so on.
“I’m going to miss this place and the people a lot. I’m very proud of everything that’s been achieved here and I’m excited to watch it continue from the outside.”
Everyone at the British Engines Group would like to say a massive thank you to Paul and wish him all the best as he heads into retirement this July.
As a final message, Richard Dodd, CEO of British Engines said: “I would like to personally take this opportunity to thank Paul on behalf of the British Engines board, both past and present for everything he has done for the company over a distinguished carrier, and the support in the numerous roles he has fulfilled over the years.
“I have known Paul over 35 years during all my working career, and during the times before that and his passion, dedication and commitment, in supporting, British Engines, BEL Valves and latterly TPT, to achieve success and sustainability for the future is one he should be proud of.
“Finally, thank you for your incredible 50 years of service to the company, your colleagues throughout wish you a very happy, peaceful and truly well-deserved retirement.”