Richard Close

Currently working as the chief executive of Briggs Equipment, the UK's leading independent service provider and materials handling equipment supplier, Richard has transformed four loss making businesses into multi-million pound profit making organisations.

Richard has also held positions in Lex for Hyundai, setting up the franchising of the brand in the UK, and provided strategic advice for the growth of the forklift arm of Lex in 1996. After two years in this role, Richard was approached by NACCO, to head up the business as vice president and managing director of Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Richard spearheaded the transformation of the business from £25million loss to £2million profit in just three years, growing the market share from 7.3% to 8.2%.

Richard is an inspiring leader, encouraging employees and managers to be involved in the decision making and success of the business. Richard also likes to inspire young people in the workplace, encouraging passion and enthusiasm amongst today's more disadvantaged generation.