Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems strengthens ESG commitment with new appointment

Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems (Kongsberg PCS) has underlined its commitment to a sustainable future and its own environmental, social and governance (ESG) principles, with the appointment of Kieran Spencer as the company’s new ESG compliance officer.

Stuart Fox, CEO and president, said that the appointment underlined how the company is striving to put its ESG principles and a sustainable future at the heart of its business.

‘We understand and respect the importance of the impact that our operations and decisions have, not just on our own business, but also on our planet and its people,’ said Stuart. ‘With Kieran in this important role, we are reinforcing our commitment to these principles, and I am delighted to welcome Kieran to the team. As we focus on our ESG standards, we are ensuring that Kongsberg Precision Cutting Systems continues to lead the way in responsible business practices and also inspires others to follow suit.’

Based at the company’s production facility in Brno, Czech Republic, Kieran will ensure all manufacturing and operational processes are in accordance with relevant worldwide regulations, as well as updating and implementing the company’s ESG objectives.

‘I am thrilled to join an exceptional global organization that is both a home to world leading brands and so committed to ESG initiatives,’ said Kieran. ‘With several policies and processes already in place, my role is to review, update, formalise and synthesise all these under one umbrella.’

‘The company has made significant strides in terms of its objectives in recent years. The new Kongsberg Ultimate is a great example of how innovation is being used to drive sustainability – both in terms of the materials used in the manufacture of the machine, as well as the accuracy with which it cuts and the materials it can handle,’ said Kieran. ‘The principle is that by using more recycled materials and less plastic to build a better machine that not only minimises waste through its precision but that can also be used for a longer time, we can help significantly reduce emissions.’

The company has a clearly defined commitment to reducing its environmental footprint through proactive measures in energy use, material sourcing, waste reduction, and enhancing the recyclability of materials. ‘As we produce machines that we sell to other businesses, there are several aspects that we already address,’ said Kieran. ‘Our Kongsberg and MultiCam cutting systems are renowned for their durability and reliability. These are key factors, as it means companies are not regularly wasting energy and resources through errors, maintenance shutdowns or having to buy new machines.

‘One of my first objectives is to build on our success and set aggressive new goals to reduce emissions. Complementing the reliability and durability, I can see that the company already makes its machines as efficient as possible. We are also dedicated to successfully removing non renewable packaging from the supply chain completely.’

In terms of governance, Kieran has been impressed by the open and transparent communication across the whole organisation, and the company’s impact on the wider community is clearly taken very seriously regarding ‘social’ principles. ‘While we are a global company, we are looking at how we can and do interact with our local communities,’ he said. ‘What I find impressive is that this is a company is actively looking at ways to make a difference to its environment, to its local community and to its people.

‘We are not simply ticking a box when it comes to things like energy efficient practices, inclusion and diversity, or transparency. We are actively developing and implementing new processes to address these issues, and I am delighted to be taking responsibility for this as the company continues its exciting journey of growth.’