Established in 1955, Schaeffler (UK) Ltd is privately owned and an autonomous subsidiary of the German based Schaeffler Group, a world leading manufacturer of rolling bearings and precision automotive engine components.

Roger Evans took on the role of Plant Director at the Llanelli plant at a time when the Company was faced with globalisation and increased competition from lower labour costs countries particularly from Eastern Europe. A number of the low tech products and machines were transferred out of the plant which resulted in around 20% of the workforce being made redundant. Employee morale was at rock bottom and absenteeism on the increase. Roger realised that survival of the Llanelli plant was at stake and that in order to secure its future, the entire workforce had to be developed in order that the employees would be skilled and flexible enough take on any challenges that came their way. It was decided that a culture change was needed, which would have such a marked impact, that the parent company in Germany would sit-up, take notice and reverse global decisions in favour of Llanelli. Mission impossible, said some, however, Roger was determined to make this work and rallied support from both his colleagues in Llanelli and his superiors in Germany; acting as a catalyst in Llanelli and an ambassador in Germany. The Company embarked on a three year Culture Change Programme with the aim of making Llanelli the ‘Production Location of Choice’ within the INA Group. Success would be determined through effective leadership at all levels and good communication at all times. Roger led from the front throughout the initiative inspiring those around him. Added value per employee has increased, morale is much higher, productivity has increased and absence and accident rates have fallen. Germany has agreed to introduce new products, securing the future of some jobs that otherwise would have been lost. The company’s owner, Frau Schaeffler, visited the plant last year and gave Roger and the workforce a glowing report. Colleagues say Roger has been a role model through his commitment, passion, integrity and inclusive approach.