Passenger Lift Services Limited (PLS), the renowned specialist in passenger lift solutions for accessible vehicles, has announced the appointment of global entrepreneur Mike Simmonds as new CEO.
PLS is based in Oldbury, West Midlands and is a leading name in the design, manufacturing and support of powered, wheelchair lifts and ramps for buses,coaches and specialist vehicles.
Regarded as the UK market leader in underfloor passenger lifts, PLS has delivered an unrivalled range of products and services since inception in 1990. Now under new ownership, PLS will continue to pioneer in cutting-edge accessible vehicle solutions that provide unsurpassed versatility, reliability and safety.
Mike Simmonds who replaces previous Managing Director Tony Bull and Colin Thomas, Operations Director, will now direct the business with a view to increasing market share internationally.
Adam Beck, Technical Director; Mike Pitt, Sales Director; and Paul O’Connor, Manufacturing Director, will all remain at PLS and are delighted to be working with Mike as the business enters a new era of success.
Mike Simmonds is a well-respected and highly successful entrepreneur with extensive experience in the accessible vehicle industry. Mike established Q’Straint (Europe) and held the position of Managing Director for over 18 years, during which time he orchestrated development of the business across an extensive global platform. Subsequently leaving this position, Mike has begun developing several new, international business opportunities and continues his support of several charitable organisations. These include fulfilling the role of Trustee for Mobility Choice, organisers of the Mobility Roadshow; the BEARR Trust, which assists children and disadvantaged groups in areas such as Russia and Eastern Europe; and the Kent based homeless charity Porchlight. Mike commented: “The opportunity to join such a successful business as its new CEO, represents a significant milestone in my career.
PLS has an unrivalled reputation in the sector and I fully value the expertise and skills of the current team who produce engineering excellence on a daily basis. Current PLS customers can rest assured that operations, service levels and product quality will continue as normal during this transitional phase.” Mike concludes: “My intention is to build on the strength of the current PLS workforce through implementation of dynamic and innovate strategies so the business moves forward in a progressive manner. This is an exciting time for PLS with new investments into the business, that I believe will help us better serve our established customers whilst benefiting from emerging export opportunities.
