Champion of the Week
Meet our Champion of the Week: Ashley Holmes, Finance Director, Penny Engineering Ltd
Ashley Holmes, Finance Director at Penny Engineering Ltd, in Clowne. We design, manufacture and install lifting equipment, including cranes on vehicles and goods lifts.
What is your organisation looking forward to?
We are excited to keep innovating in the lifting and materials-handling sector. We are investing in new product development, improving efficiency through smarter design, and embracing more sustainable manufacturing practices.
What makes North Derbyshire a good place to work?
It offers a balance of skilled people, good work ethic, and quality of life. There is a sense of pride in industry, combined with good transport links, proximity to the M1 and Sheffield, and access to countryside.
What sparked your decision to invest in North Derbyshire and why?
Our decision to invest in the area was driven by the area’s heritage and the availability of engineering talent. Being based in Clowne allows us to remain close to our workforce, suppliers and customers while benefiting from a supportive business environment and regional identity.
Who has provided advice and how has it helped your organisation?
We have benefited from advice and support from the East Midlands Chamber of Commerce, joining networks including the East Midlands Manufacturing Forum. This guidance has helped us navigate international growth, adapt to market changes, and improve how we operate as a business.
How are you supporting young people?
We support young people through apprenticeships and work experience placements. These opportunities allow individuals to develop skills while bringing ideas and enthusiasm into the business. Many of our young people grow into roles and play a key part in our success. Around 10% of our workforce are apprentices, and some have gone on to become senior managers and leaders in the company.
How is your team supporting our communities?
As a employer, we believe in giving back. We support community initiatives, local events and charities, and we take pride in providing secure employment that supports families across the region. Creating stable jobs contributes to the wellbeing of the community.
How would you describe Chesterfield and North Derbyshire, using three words?
Innovative, diversified and dependable.
What experiences would you recommend sharing in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire?
I would recommend visiting Chesterfield’s markets where I started my career, and spending time in the town centre. The mix of outdoor experiences and local culture highlights what the area has to offer.
How does Chesterfield showcase its culture and heritage?
The area does a good job of celebrating its industrial roots while embracing modern culture. From historic landmarks like the Crooked Spire to local events, museums and theatres, heritage is part of everyday life here.
Where in Chesterfield holds a special connection for you?
I am a Spireite, along with my family and friends, so the SMH Group Stadium is a special place for me. I love the Crooked Spire and 1435 Theatre, formerly known as the Pomegranate Theatre, where I’ve seen my daughter perform several times.
Chesterfield Champions have been helping to promote Chesterfield and North Derbyshire for over 15 years. What have you most enjoyed supporting during this time?
I’ve most enjoyed helping to promote the town’s businesses and highlighting the strength of our local economy. Being part of a network that wants Chesterfield to succeed is incredibly rewarding.
What is your vision for Chesterfield and North Derbyshire in 2030?
I would like to see Chesterfield continue to grow as a centre for skilled employment, innovation, and investment. Achieving this will require collaboration between businesses, education providers and local authorities to attract talent, support young people, and invest in the infrastructure needed to make this happen.
Penny Engineering Ltd is among more than 200 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.
Find out more about our Champions network.
