Harris Springs, the Reading based designer and manufacturer of precision springs, has appointed Steve Porter as their new Quality Manager. Steve brings to the company more than 20 years of experience in Quality Management. Most recently, he has spent 13 years at Howles Carbides Ltd where he was, among other things, responsible for obtaining their ISO registration to BS EN ISO 9001:2000.

Steve will be responsible for maintaining and improving Harris Springs' quality policies (the company is accredited to ISO9001:2000) and will be working to gain accreditation to TS 16949:2002 the globally accepted standard for the automotive industry.

Commenting on the appointment, Philip Harris Managing Director said "As we make our move to Lean Manufacturing techniques it is important that we have strong and flexible Quality Management. Steve's experience and his proactive approach to quality will ensure that we [Harris Springs] continually seek to improve our working practises and the level of service we provide to our customers."

Looking forward to the challenges ahead, Steve Porter said: "Although new to the springs' industry, I feel my enthusiasm for operating quality systems and other 'lean' practises will complement the skills of the existing team who are very committed to improving the productivity and profitability of Harris Springs. I also intend to take a more proactive role with Harris Springs' customers, in order to provide them with an added-value service."

Steve's arrival is already making a difference. The investment by Harris Springs in a new shadow graph, at Steve's recommendation, enables greater accuracy in measuring parts and checking springs and wire shapes which means improved dimensional results and less rejects for the customer.

Contact Harris Springs for details of the company's product range and services or telephone 0118 934 0024.