James Hewlett Repose Graduate University of Wolverhampton

Repose Furniture has appointed a new industrial design graduate as part of its partnership with the University of Wolverhampton’s Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project, which will see the Cradley Heath manufacturer implement pioneering new production processes.

Having been used successfully by a number of major manufacturing businesses, KTPs are designed to allow companies to utilise leading-edge technology and research within the academic sector to bring about cutting edge change within UK industry.

The project sees the West Midlands-based bespoke seating manufacturer adopt the latest in digital engineering and design technology to assist with the development of new products, as well as bring about improved productivity and growth.

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As part of the project, Repose has appointed James Hewlett on a three-year internship, during which he will be working as an industrial designer for the seating manufacturer.

“I have recently graduated from my BDes (Hons) in Product Design with a 1:1 and the opportunity to work within an organisation such as Repose is invaluable to me,” commented James.

“I initially heard about Repose when I was researching possible placements on the University website and saw they were looking for a KTP Associate.  After speaking to people at the university, I conducted some research on Repose and only read positive reviews and also liked the fact that it is a family business and their products really make a difference to the customer’s quality of life and independence.”

In the role, James will be supported by the internal expertise at the university, with additional staff working on the project to provide input on project implementation and development.

“We are delighted to be able to offer James the chance to work with us following his degree,” commented Lisa Wardley, Managing Director of Repose.

“People such as James are the future of British manufacturing and it is down to us as manufacturers to work with universities and invest the time and money to provide opportunities such as this.  The KTP is beneficial to both parties as it will enable us to learn about new processes and the latest technological advances.”

The KTP programme is a three-way project between a graduate, an organisation and a university and is supported by the UK Government through Innovate UK, and is due to run for three years.

In 2019, Repose Furniture is celebrating its 20th year anniversary, with the Cradley Heath supplier overcoming the ups and downs of domestic manufacturing whilst staying true to its commitment of quality. Read more about the company’s past and what it has planned for the future in THIIS’ ‘More About… Repose’ feature.

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https://thiis.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/James-Hewlett-Repose-Graduate-University-of-Wolverhampton.jpghttps://thiis.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/James-Hewlett-Repose-Graduate-University-of-Wolverhampton-150x150.jpgCalvin BarnettAnalysis & InsightsNew to the TeamNewsroomSupplier Newsinternship,James Hewlett,Knowledge Transfer Partnership,KTP,Lisa Wardley,product design,repose,riser recliner,seating,University of Wolverhampton,West MidlandsRepose Furniture has appointed a new industrial design graduate as part of its partnership with the University of Wolverhampton’s Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) project, which will see the Cradley Heath manufacturer implement pioneering new production processes. Having been used successfully by a number of major manufacturing businesses, KTPs are designed...News, views & products for mobility, access and independent living professionals