A PRODUCTION manager based in Bude has made waves after being recognised for an award on the national stage.

Since starting his apprenticeship after leaving school, Nathan Powell has risen through the ranks at Bott Ltd, now serving as a production manager at the organisation’s Bude site. Having been in the role since the start of 2025, Nathan has now been named as a ‘rising star’ within the industry.

Each year, Make UK highlight some of the country’s best from the manufacturing industry, with Nathan being named among some of the cream of the crop.

Throughout his training, Nathan has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and technical expertise, combining hands-on experience with academic study.

He completed a Level 5 operations qualification through Exeter University and has become a firm advocate for apprenticeships, regularly engaging with schools and National Manufacturing Day open days and site tours to inspire the next generation into the sector.

Nathan’s trajectory has seen him progress from apprentice to a trusted figure within the business, now overseeing multiple projects – including implementing new manufacturing models to increase production.

He also holds responsibility for managing manufacturing stock worth millions of pounds and has delivered significant cost efficiencies. While alongside his operational achievements, judges recognised Nathan’s development as a leader.

Despite his young age, he now leads a team of around 90 production staff and received praise for his ability to foster a high-performing team culture, as well as mentoring new starters, including apprentices like himself.

In the future, Nathan has ambitions to continue developing as a strategic leader, using automation, data and continuous improvement to futureproof UK manufacturing and strengthen long-term business sustainability.

Andrew Poole, operations director, Bott Ltd said: “Nathan has built on his earlier Level 3 apprenticeship with a cheerful determination and a helpful attitude. His willingness to take responsibility, combined with a strong instinct for empathy and support, has enabled him to succeed at this level while building strong foundations for the future.

“Since taking on his new role in January 2025, he has been able to apply much of the learning from his Level 5 degree course to the challenges of daily work, and the pace and depth of his development have been great to see. The blend of real-world experience and academic learning has been particularly impressive.

“For the business, it’s a true win-win scenario - we have a confident and capable manager delivering successful outcomes for the whole organisation. I’m very proud of his progress and his journey toward becoming a great role model who inspires others to work and achieve at this level.”

Kerri-Anne Mruk, regional director for the South of England at Make UK, said: “Winning Engineering: Rising Star is a fantastic achievement. Nathan is a real credit to the team at Bott and a shining example of the talent leading the next generation of UK manufacturing. With individuals like Nathan coming through, the future of our sector is in very capable hands.”