A Legacy of Innovation: Jonathan Horsfall Joins the IWMA Executive Management Committee

With a remarkable history that stretches back over three centuries, Webster and Horsfall is one of the UK’s longest-standing wire companies and a name synonymous with resilience, innovation, and craftsmanship. Now, as the company marks its 305th anniversary, another exciting chapter begins. Jonathan Horsfall, part of the family that continues to lead this historic business, has joined the IWMA Executive Management Committee, bringing with him a wealth of industry knowledge, practical experience, and a deep commitment to collaboration across the sector.

Jonathan’s appointment is not only a reflection of his own leadership, but also a sign of the IWMA’s ongoing mission to strengthen its connection with long-standing members and forward-thinking manufacturers. For Webster and Horsfall – a proud IWMA member for over 30 years – it’s a natural alignment. And for the IWMA, welcoming a company with such a storied past and forward-facing approach to its leadership team can only be a positive step.

“The key to our longevity has always been adaptability,” Jonathan explains. “We’ve embraced change without losing sight of who we are. Our ability to evolve with the times, whether that’s adopting new technologies, entering new markets, or responding to shifting customer demands, has been crucial. But ultimately, it’s the people. Generation after generation, we’ve had people who care deeply about this business and about serving our customers well.”

That spirit of evolution continues to drive Webster and Horsfall today. The business has undergone significant transformation in recent years, investing in new equipment and manufacturing upgrades while embarking on a major operational shift to a new site in Redditch. “Relocating our stockholding to a purpose-built facility is a big milestone,” Jonathan says. “It will improve logistics, bring us in line with modern warehousing standards, and create space for further growth. At the same time, we’ve enhanced our in-house capabilities, from heat treatment and grinding to coating and profiling, which has boosted consistency, increased capacity, and opened the door to new opportunities.”

But these changes aren’t just about growth for its own sake. They’re strategic responses to a fast-changing market. “The wire and cable industry is under pressure, but it’s also full of possibility,” he reflects. “Supply chains are still volatile, and the cost landscape is unpredictable. But the demand is there, in energy, infrastructure, engineering. The challenge is to stay agile and responsive, without compromising on quality.”

Sustainability and digitalisation are also central to Webster and Horsfall’s vision for the future, and Jonathan believes they’re not optional anymore. “Digitalisation improves everything from efficiency to traceability. Sustainability is both a responsibility and a commercial reality. Whether it’s waste reduction, greener materials, or energy-efficient processes, we all need to step up.”

In joining the IWMA Executive Management Committee, Jonathan brings not only his technical and operational insight but also a strong belief in the power of community. “The IWMA has played a big role in our journey over the past three decades. It’s helped us stay connected, share knowledge, and build relationships. When I was asked to join the EMC, I felt genuinely honoured. It’s a chance to give something back, to represent UK manufacturing, support other members, and help steer the association as it grows.”

He sees this role as an opportunity to help the IWMA continue evolving in line with its members’ needs. “There’s already fantastic work being done by the EMC, and I’m keen to build on that strong foundation. For me, priorities include championing technical education, offering accessible resources for SMEs, and promoting international collaboration. We all benefit when the industry as a whole is stronger.”

For the IWMA, having someone with Jonathan’s depth of experience and future-focused mindset is a real asset. He brings not just historical perspective, but practical knowledge of the challenges that manufacturers face today, from recruiting skilled talent to implementing new technologies in a cost-effective way. “Skills development is a huge issue,” he notes. “As experienced people retire, we need to inspire and equip the next generation. The IWMA can be a big part of that, whether through training, online content, or mentoring opportunities.”

Jonathan also believes strongly in the value of networking and global engagement, two areas where the IWMA has long delivered. “The association creates a platform where members can build relationships across borders, learn from one another, and access markets they might not reach alone. And the events run by the IWMA team are always top-notch. They bring people together in a way that’s both professional and genuinely enjoyable.”

Looking ahead, Jonathan is optimistic about what the IWMA can achieve. “We’ve got a real opportunity to shape the future of the wire and cable sector. Whether it’s advocating for sustainable practices, supporting innovation, or making the industry more accessible for new entrants, the IWMA is well placed to lead.”

His advice to younger or smaller companies entering the sector is simple: “Get involved. Join the IWMA. Go to the events, talk to your peers, and invest in your people. There’s a huge amount of knowledge and generosity in this industry. And when you’re part of a strong network like the IWMA, you’re never doing it alone.”

With Jonathan Horsfall now playing an active role on the Executive Management Committee, the IWMA gains not only a respected voice from one of the industry’s oldest companies, but also a passionate advocate for its future.