Jan 2015

The Manufacturer Top 100 report has revealed its most influential individuals in UK Manufacturing.The project run by the Manufacturer magazine aims to dispel myths surrounding manufacturing and create a platform to champion and publicly identify dynamic leaders and innovators in the sector. Local Hastings man Dave Mooney was one of the individuals who was nominated. Dave is an Engineer and Chartered Quality Professional who leads Drallim Industries as Managing Director. Drallim Industries are producers of specialist engineering equipment for the Aerospace, Industrial and Utilities markets. Dave graduated from Sussex University as a Material Scientist and spent 20 years in corporate technical roles with BICC, Smiths Industries and BTR/Invensys; Dave then joined Drallim as Technical Director and for the last 10 years as MD he has been intensely proud to be running an independent, employee owned, British manufacturer with the mission: “Innovative people, engineering quality, niche products and contract services” Drallim have won four Manufacturer awards and Dave is now a regular member of “The Manufacturer” magazine awards judging panel and their Editorial Board. Drallim is majority owned by the Millard Trust on behalf of the workforce. As a Trustee, Dave is dedicated to providing engineering employment opportunities for local people of all ages, including women, young people and disadvantaged groups. In recent months the workforce has increase by 20% (9 people) reflecting the strengthening economy. Dave built three sales divisions, Aerospace, Industrial and Utilities, also acquiring four companies, giving a broad business base. Driving new product developments including, electrical, mechanical and electronic products has led to exporting niche products across the globe; including USA, Japan, India, and Hong Kong. Building long term personal relationships with customers such as BT, MoD and National Grid have been paramount to success. Continued product development, in tough times has brought new opportunities in the upturn especially for Aerospace Cargo Hooks and the new DACS energy saving unit for Utilities applications. Dave leads from the front and aims to inspire and influence the workforce in Hastings.