JCB Transmissions manufacture gearboxes and axels and plays a huge part in sculpting the modern world. From agriculture to construction, power generation and access, their machines are on site in over 150 countries around the world.

Craig Weeks, general manager of JCB transmissions, started with the business 27 years ago as a temp worker, and was then taken on 2 years later as a full time JCB axle assembler. A few years after moving up to gearbox assembly, he decided he wanted to go down the route of leadership and management.

The Leader: JCB TransmissionsJCB Transmissions (Image: JCB Transmissions)

“I became a team leader, first in gearbox and then a supervisor in gearbox a few years after. My first managers job was in axles which was a huge achievement for me and my family, after a 5 years I become operations manager then 18months later I was offered general manager which is the proudest achievement in my life.”

Week’s dad initially attracted him to the business 27 years ago, sparking his interest whilst his dad was working at the company.

“My dad worked there and got me a start in the business, I just went from there really.”

From small beginnings building agricultural tipping trailers in 1945, to the global force in manufacturing the company has become today, JCB has constantly pushed the boundaries in our desire to be the best.

“Today, we have 22 plants on four continents and more than 750 dealers around the world. In just 75 years we have gone from one man in a garage in Uttoxeter to major global brand renowned for its pioneering spirit. All of this is down to our people – a 11,000-strong worldwide force that makes up the JCB family we are so proud of.”

The Leader: JCB TransmissionsJCB Transmissions (Image: JCB Transmissions)

In a world that’s increasingly under pressure from environmental degradation, finding innovative and sustainable solutions for their customers’ needs and managing the resources that go into their products is more important than ever.

“We’ve worked hard on our engine development over the last 15 years to deliver significant improvements around air quality objectives.”

JCB is working hard to push the boundaries, especially when it comes to sustainability. They are looking to be there to support their customers as they reinvent their businesses to meet new building standards and emissions legislation.

“I love my job, the people I work with and the area we live in. We have a plan to grow the business 20% to 30% over the next 5 years, which is great for the area and our people, I want people to have a great career in JCB and this investment and growth will definitely give people the opportunity.”

The Leader: JCB TransmissionsJCB Transmissions (Image: JCB Transmissions)

The growth of the company will be great news for the surrounding area of Wrexham and the local people, creating new jobs and opportunities as well as support for new customers.

JCB take the care of their employees very seriously, especially as they plan to take on new staff.

“We have over 500 people on site now and we have taken on over 100 people over the last 18 months and eight apprentice have been taken on full time, we have another 4 apprentices joining us this year to keep driving the business forward.”

The mental health and wellbeing of the staff is at the heart of JCB, and Craig is doing everything to support his employees in any way he can.

“All of our employees are trained and accredited in mental health awareness, so people can recognise any signs that they may be needing help. They can also share this learning with family and friends.”

Find out more about JCB Transmissions, or get in contact here.