Steve Horder

‘I’ve been very fortunate in my career and worked for some amazing companies. Most of my time has been in Aerospace businesses starting with British Airways Engineering through to SR Technics and Honeywell Aerospace with roles in the UK, US and Switzerland. Returning from Switzerland I had a fascinating role in the Civil Service, and then joined Malvern Panalytical leading the commercial and services teams just after the merger which was a terrific experience in an analytical instrument business.

I discovered PCS Instruments when John and Clive, the founders of the business, were looking for a CEO to help with the next stage of the PCS journey – it was a wonderful opportunity and a good fit for me.

There were a few things that really attracted me to PCS – its products, culture and potential. There is a deep-seated professionalism and customer service ethos in the business and a spirit of collaboration with experts leading to the design and manufacture of great products and services. These really give the business an edge. I believe the key to the business’ success is that these things have been established and developed by the team over many years and are embedded into everything we do.

Like many businesses, we have some changes going on and that can sometimes affect the culture of the business, but we are keen to build on the strong historic foundations and keep them in mind as we enhance and develop. John and Clive have created a great business and a great team. I feel very fortunate to be part of that and I believe the business has a brilliant future.

As the CEO, my focus is on the longer-term outlook for the business; helping with processes to develop the business and the individuals. However, on a day-to-day basis I get involved in all sorts – from customer and distributor meetings to stock-takes to business rates reviews to emptying the dishwasher and everything in between; in a small business you have to get stuck in where needed and that’s part of the fun.

On the other hand, size/scale is a challenge. We’re very focused on the daily tasks and often wear several hats of responsibility and that can mean that decisions can be quick but changes can take longer than you would like; it’s not a unique challenge as every business has to prioritise, but I feel it’s particularly pointed in a smaller business.

The business’ success stems from the vision of John and Clive and the consistent development by everyone who has ever worked here. I’ve been lucky to have worked for and with some excellent leaders during my career and hope to bring some of that learning to PCS.’