Hardware protection leader appoints new MD

Vanquish Hardware Protection has appointed David Sutcliffe as its new Managing Director, as the leading UK manufacturer of precision intumescent kits for rebated hardware in timber fire door assemblies looks to continue its rapid growth since launching three years ago.

David takes over from his father Keith Sutcliffe, who is semi-retiring after more than 30 years in the passive fire protection industry and has been a driving force behind the company’s rise to the top.

With 14 years’ experience, he moves from his position of Managing Director at Firestop Manufacturing Ltd, a UK manufacturer of passive fire protection products.

Excited to jump in full-time, David said: “Having been a part of Vanquish since its conception, the team already understand my values and vision. The business has a strong foundation and I’m looking forward to building on that and working closely with our customers.

“I’m also looking forward to working alongside my brother Mike, who is head of sales, and continuing the close-knit, family feel that has always been a core part of our company.”

Vanquish manufacture FlexiFire®, the leading graphite based intumescent and was the first UK company to secure third party IFC (International Fire Consultants ltd) accreditation for both – FlexiFire® and its other hardware protection product, Fire Protectors phosphate-based intumescent.

Recent investment in a new sheet extrusion line that will solely be used for the extrusion of its graphite-based products will increase production capacity and enhance efficiency to meet demand.

“There are movements within the industry that are drastically changing the requirements for our products, from the potential removal of British standards from building regulations to a greater demand for traceability for passive fire protection products. We believe this will only increase the demand for hardware protection products,” added David.

“We have everything set up to build on the last three years, and my focus will be on continuing to innovate within the hardware protection market to push the industry forward and grow our reputation as market leaders.”

To find out more, visit www.vanquish-hp.co.uk or call 01725 578020.