Next generation assumes responsibility at APS

As at 30 June, 2005, well-known respected industry figure, founder and Managing Director of Australian Power Steering, John Byford announced his retirement.

In stepping down, John announced that his son Mark Byford would assume this responsibility as from 1 July.

Mark has been with the company more than seventeen years, gaining experience in all facets of the business, rising through the ranks from apprentice fitter & turner, qualified fitter & turner, toolmaker and then undertaking further studies including computer aided design and CNC machining.

“Under Mark’s direction as Engineering Manager, the company has experienced spectacular growth in that department which now handles precision manufacturing and machining of components, jigs, fixtures and equipment. Our state of the art CNC machinery and CAD CAM technology enables us to deliver the highest quality products across a broad range of engineering work,” said John Byford.

“Mark has been at the forefront of design and development of specialised machinery which is not only used within our own re-manufacturing plant but is sold to Power Steering specialists within Australia and overseas,” he said.

Australian Power Steering has experienced spectacular growth in recent years, with new branches in Western Australia and Queensland and in total employs more than 60 people.

Today the company is recognised as a leader in its field with the highest standards in engineering resulting in a new warranty policy and catalogue that set the benchmark for the industry.

Over the years the company has been the recipient of a number of business and industry awards. It received the ‘Innovation and Enterprise Award’ for enterprises within Kingston Council in the 2002 Melbourne Business Awards, was a finalist in the 2002 Telstra and Victorian Government Small Business Awards, and received acknowledgement by its peers with the Small Business ‘Excellence in Manufacturing’ Award at the recent 2005 Australian Automotive Aftermarket Awards ceremony.

John Byford was personally recognised by his peers at the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Awards Dinner with the ‘Outstanding Service to Industry’ Award, following a long and dedicated career.

In taking up his appointment Mark commented that he was committed to the highest levels of product quality and customer service and was focused on the continuing growth and development of this exciting family company.