ASG Aerospace Director Mandy Ridyard appointed to National Manufacturing Commission
Leslah Garland 14 November 2025 
ASG Aerospace has announced that Mandy Ridyard, Director of ASG Produmax, has been appointed to the National Manufacturing Commission as part of its newly launched inquiry into how the Government’s Industrial Strategy can best support UK manufacturing SMEs.
The Commission, the research arm of the All-Party Parliamentary Manufacturing Group (APMG), plays a vital role in shaping policy recommendations that strengthen UK manufacturing. Its latest inquiry will scrutinise how the Government’s Modern Industrial Strategy, launched in June 2025, can deliver practical, long-term support for SMEs—the backbone of the UK’s 250,000 active manufacturing businesses.
The inquiry will address critical themes such as; Building sovereign capability, tackling energy costs and infrastructure challenges, improving access to finance and streamlining the regulatory environment.
By gathering evidence from industry leaders, academics, and policymakers, the Commission aims to ensure SMEs can thrive, innovate, and play a central role in delivering national resilience and economic growth.
Speaking on her appointment, Ridyard said: “SMEs are the lifeblood of UK manufacturing and play a crucial role in creating innovation, resilience, and jobs across our regions. I am honoured to join the National Manufacturing Commission at such a pivotal time, ensuring the voice of SME manufacturers is heard loud and clear as the Industrial Strategy takes shape.”
“At ASG Produmax, we’ve seen first-hand how the right ingredients can help drive innovation enabling SMEs to compete globally. Support around cheap green energy, investment, skills, and digitisation, for example, will help ensure a bright future for UK manufacturing.”
The Commission’s inquiry is chaired by Bill Esterson MP and Lord Bilimoria of Chelsea CBE, DL, and is supported by the ERA Foundation. A steering group of industry experts—including senior figures from academia, advanced manufacturing, and SME leadership—will guide the work and help shape actionable recommendations for the Government.
ASG Aerospace CEO Simon Weston commented on the appointment; “We are delighted that Mandy has been invited to join the Manufacturing Commission. Her experience leading ASG Produmax and championing SME growth makes her a strong voice for advanced manufacturing and the critical role SMEs play in driving innovation, exports, and resilience.”
For more information, visit https://www.asg-group.co/
