25/02/2026 • SEW-EURODRIVE UK and Ireland, is pleased to announce Andy Turner’s appointment as Managing Director, succeeding John Pickup, who has now retired. Andy has been with the firm for 17 years, having most recently held the role of Operations Director.
We’re delighted to share that Andy Turner has been promoted to Managing Director of SEW-EURODRIVE UK and Ireland, taking the reins from John Pickup, who has retired after 31 years of service with the company.
Previously Operations Director, Andy will now be responsible for the overall performance of SEW-EURODRIVE's UK and Ireland division. His role will include shaping the firm’s growth strategy in alignment with the wider group’s global objectives while also overseeing operational delivery and financial performance.
Speaking about his new role, Andy said: “I am proud to be taking on the role of Managing Director for this wonderful company that I have been a part of for 17 years. I have some very big shoes to fill but I am grateful to John Pickup for his advice and guidance over the years to prepare me for this role.
“As we look ahead, I am keen to further unite our teams across our various products to ensure we are offering the very best, holistic and effective solutions for our customers.
“We want to be the go-to industrial engineering solutions provider, and I am confident that we have the team, the products and the ambition to achieve that goal through maintaining consistent sales growth and growing our market share in automation, industrial gears and service.”
Andy has worked at SEW-EURODRIVE UK since 2008, starting out as external Area Sales Manager, before his expertise and capabilities led him to progressing into the role of Internal Sales and Marketing Manager.
In 2021, he stepped into the role of Sales and Operations Manager, taking responsibility for the day-to-day production and site operations, His strong performance, technical expertise and consistent leadership led his promotion to Operations Director in April 2025. Recognised for his role in driving growth initiatives, building high-performing teams, and maintaining operational excellence across the organisation, Andy’s appointment as Managing Director marks a natural progression for the business.
Among his notable achievements are the successful launch of SEW-EURODRIVE’s DriveAcademy® in 2024. Developed under Andy's leadership and in collaboration with multiple teams, the initiative provides advanced product training for both customers and employees strengthening knowledge sharing and supporting long term customer partnerships.
Andy has specialised in gearboxes since leaving school and has an in-depth understanding of drive solutions and their components. He has 24 years of industry experience, having begun his career at Renold Gears as Apprentice Engineering Fitter. He consequently progressed to the company's sales office, before becoming External Sales Manager, prior to joining SEW-EURODRIVE UK.
Beginning his career as an apprentice has given Andy a strong foundation in technical skills and problem-solving. His leadership style is focused on two-way communication and learning, supporting those who want to learn and grow in their roles.
This approach is reflected in how we seek new talent at SEW-EURODRIVE UK, partnering with local schools and colleges to show young people what a modern career in engineering can look like. Andy’s career trajectory shows that starting on the shop floor can lead to leadership roles, highlighting how the right skill, dedication, and support can help the next generation of engineers grow and carry forward our expertise as a company.
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