STEVE BRINGS more than three decades of experience in the materials handling industry and joins the Board at a pivotal time for the sector, as businesses navigate technological change, sustainability challenges, skills shortages and evolving customer expectations.

As CEO of Aprolis UK, Steve leads the UK materials handling operations of the Aprolis Group, part of the global Monnoyeur organisation. The UK business spans multiple companies and employs more than 600 people nationwide. Steve’s career began as a 16-year-old engineering apprentice with Lex Harvey, and aside from a three-year spell in the commercial vehicle sector, he has spent his entire career in materials handling, holding senior roles with manufacturers including Linde and Jungheinrich, and independent businesses such as Acclaim Handling. He joined Impact Handling in 2020, was appointed CEO in 2022, and now leads the wider Aprolis UK operation following the company’s acquisition by the Aprolis Group in 2021.

A strong advocate for apprenticeships, Steve remains committed to attracting, developing and retaining talent within the industry.

Steve Shakespeare said: “I’m delighted to be joining the UKMHA Board and to have the opportunity to contribute to an organisation that supports companies of all shapes and sizes across our industry. Having begun my own journey as an apprentice, I am especially passionate about developing future talent and equipping people with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving industry.”

Rob Fisher, CEO of UKMHA, added: “The addition of Steve to our Board is a real coup. He brings a wealth of leadership experience together with an exceptional understanding of the sector, and I am confident he will make a significant contribution as we grow our influence and champion the interests of the UK’s material handling industry.”