TEXTILES.ORG
AW Hainsworth, a Pudsey, U.K.-based fabric manufacturer and vertical woolen mill, has announced the appointment of Paul Dudley as its new head of engineering and sustainability. This newly created role will focus on shaping AW Hainsworth’s engineering and sustainability strategy and fostering a culture of continuous improvement across the organization.
Dudley joins AW Hainsworth with an extensive engineering, environmental, and health and safety management background, having spent the last 28 years predominantly working in the furniture industry. He previously worked for a German textile machine manufacturer in Leeds and has a vast knowledge of textile machinery and processes. He has successfully led sustainability projects such as IS0 14064 accreditation and implemented energy-saving initiatives in his previous roles.
“Joining AW Hainsworth feels like returning to my roots in textiles. The company’s rich history, manufacturing excellence, dedication to its workforce and environmental impact align perfectly with my passion for sustainability,” says Dudley. “I’m excited to help embed a sustainable culture in all areas of the business and to be part of a company that heavily invests in the interest of the workforce while putting environmental impact at the heart of everything it does.”
In his new role, Dudley will focus on several key sustainability initiatives to reduce the company’s carbon footprint, increase employee well-being and enhance overall efficiency. His initial efforts will include benchmarking data to guide the company’s sustainability strategy and exploring energy-saving operations for various systems and processes.
“We are thrilled to welcome Paul to our team. His expertise and dedication to sustainability will be invaluable as we continue integrating environmentally responsible practices into our operations and making significant investments towards evolving into a more sustainable business while maintaining our heritage of quality textiles,” says Amanda McLaren, managing director at AW Hainsworth.
Founded in 1783, AW Hainsworth is known for producing woolen cloth and high-performing textiles. The company’s heritage includes furnishing royal interiors, palaces, and the House of Lords. Hainsworth cloth is also worn by royalty and the military. It is the parent company of Hainsworth Fabric of a Nation, Hainsworth Protective Fabrics, Hainsworth Toptable, Natural Legacy by Hainsworth, John Atkinson, Hainsworth Technical Felt, Northern Rubber by Hainsworth and Replin by Hainsworth.