Jon Naylor heads up Vortex valves in UK and Europe

The US manufacturer of bulk dry material handling valves, Vortex, has recruited Jon Naylor to head its emerging UK and Eurpean business

The US manufacturer of bulk dry material handling valves, Vortex, has recruited Jon Naylor to head its emerging UK and Eurpean business.

As European Managing Director, Naylor is developing a UK operation, from which to launch the Vortex valves brand in Europe and the Middle East.

Following six years as UK General Manager with a US$100m per year hydraulic tool manufacturer, in which he oversaw a dramatic rise in profitability and turnover, Jon Naylor was targeted for the new role, based on his ability to achieve rapid success.

Vortex has realistic aims though, he says: "The company doesn't expect to storm the marketplace.

It has a long-term plan that will be implemented patiently.

Having said that, I think the process engineering and bulk handling industries really will welcome this unique new breed of valves.

"In Europe, the valves that are commonplace in dry bulk solids handling, in particular, are often well constructed but, we believe, are significantly over-engineered.

Vortex valves have a string of design awards and almost a 30-year history in the supply of specialised valves for the dry bulk solids handling industry to their credit, yet they are far more cost effective by comparison.

I am confident that the relatively small number of OEMs and processors over here, who have heard of Vortex, or already have them in service, will grow strongly.

It is an exciting prospect for us but we recognise that is going to take time to develop a long term strong presence in the UK, Europe and Middle East".

Jon Naylor has previous experience and a wide field of contacts that will serve the Vortex cause well.

With International Pipeline Products , having global responsibilities as Export Sales Manager, he set up a network of agents in the Middle East.

He entered the pipeline industry in 1992, rising to Sales Manager for the UK, Europe, Africa and the Former Soviet Union, with Pipeline Engineering.

Centred in Salina, Kansas, Vortex supplies dry bulk material handling valves to a worldwide customer base of original equipment manufacturers and process engineering specialists.

Vortex valves are known to handle over 500 different materials.

Currently the company is moving to a purpose built state-of-the-art manufacturing facility and office complex and is introducing leading-edge production technology to further enhance its status as technological leader in its field.

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