News

In Conversation with Chris

27 May 2026

Rob and Gillian from Sales and Marketing sat down with newly appointed Managing Director, Chris Burns.

Over afternoon tea and biscuits, we talked about his journey through Prosaw, how he feels stepping into the role, and what the future holds for the business. With nearly four decades of experience within the company, Chris brings a perspective built from the ground up – shaped by hands-on experience, progression, and a deep understanding of the business.

Here’s what he had to say…

Q1. How does it feel stepping into the role of Managing Director?

Chris: It’s a proud moment of course, but also a responsibility. I’ve worked alongside Phil and the team for years, so I understand what’s expected. It’s about continuing what’s been built, not changing it for the sake of it.

Q2. What does it mean to follow in Phil’s footsteps after his 41 years with the company?

Chris: Phil’s work ethic and integrity are second to none. He taught me the importance of doing things the right way, looking after people and never compromising on quality or service. Those values are very much part of Prosaw’s DNA.

Q3. Did you always imagine your career would lead to this position?

Chris: Yes, from the moment that I joined Prosaw, I have always looked to go the extra mile in everything that I have done, to gain knowledge, experience and to demonstrate a capacity and desire to face the next challenge head on.

Q4. How did your journey at Prosaw begin?

Chris: I started in our Stores as an assistant, before setting up a blade welding department. I then moved into Customer Service being involved in Customer demonstrations both at Kettering and on Customer’s sites. It was a great grounding as the product knowledge gained, led me to then joining the Service Team, under Phil, as an Engineer, Installing and looking after our machines across the UK.

Building on our conversation, we delved deeper into Chris’s journey, the lessons he’s learned. The people who have influenced him, and what drives him as he leads Prosaw into a new chapter…

Q5. How important has your service background been in shaping your leadership style?

Chris: The hands-on experience, getting to know the people, understanding the process and more importantly our Customers requirements, are all factors in putting together a workplan that accommodates everyone’s needs.

Q6. You’ve progressed through several roles at Prosaw — what stands out most from that journey?

Chris: The long-term involvement alongside Phil, to grow our Service team to the size that it is today, with Engineer’s based across the country. Our aim is and has always been, to provide first class service and support to our Customer’s, for the equipment that we supply, throughout it’s entire life cycle.

Q7. How has Prosaw changed since you first joined the company?

Chris: In terms of what we do, in principal no it hasn’t changed. In practice though, we do now carry higher levels of stock, to be able to supply many models quickly, to meet our Customer expectations. There has always been a drive for Prosaw to provide excellent after sales service, so this area of the business has grown steadily over the years, since I joined the business.

Q8. What do you believe sets Prosaw apart today?

Chris: Prosaw now represents manufacturers of many different types of machinery, so the big difference we can see today from when I joined the company, is that we can offer the correct machine for every Customer’s cutting application and budget.

Q9. What are you most proud of about the business?

Chris: The ability to provide a bespoke solution, not just an off the shelf solution, working with our customers, to meet their particular needs.

Q10. What’s your vision for the future of Prosaw?

Chris: Steady growth, strong relationships and keeping that hands-on approach. We’re not about shortcuts – we’re about doing things properly and building for the long term.

Q11. Will customers see any major changes under your leadership?

Chris: Consistency, reliability and continued improvement are the goals moving forward. We’re always looking at how we can do things better – whether that’s service, support or the solutions that we offer.

Q12. How important are supplier and customer relationships to the company?

Chris: Hugely important, with face to face meetings whenever possible, to talk through any project and ensure that everyone is working toward an agreed goal, from Manufacturer through Prosaw to our Customer Installation.

Q13. What excites you most about taking on the role?

Chris: The opportunity. We’ve got a great foundation, an experienced team and loyal customers. Now it’s about taking it forward together.

Q14. What role do people play in the success of the business?

Chris: They’re everything. From our Sales people, to our Office team and Engineers – the business is built on people who care about doing things properly.

Q15. Finally, what does this moment mean to you personally?

Chris: It means a lot. I’ve spent my career here – and to now lead the business is something I’m incredibly proud of. But more then anything, it’s about responsibility – to the people, the customers and the future of Prosaw. I’m excited for what’s ahead.