Darren Howson - the new Managing Director of Leitz Tooling UK

Leitz Tooling UK announces new Managing Director

Leitz Tooling UK announces new Managing Director

Leitz Tooling UK, a manufacturer of high-precision tooling for the woodworking and advanced materials industries, says it is proud to announce the appointment of Darren Howson as its new Managing Director.

The appointment is said to mark a new chapter for the company as it follows the retirement of Simon Liddell, who has steered the UK company for the past 15 years. Under Simon’s tenure, Leitz UK said it solidified its reputation for technical excellence and unparalleled service, navigating a changing industrial landscape with consistent growth.

A Legacy of Excellence

Reflecting on his time with the company, outgoing Managing Director Simon Liddell expressed his pride in the team’s achievements.

He said: “Leading Leitz UK for the last 15 years has been a highlight of my career. While I am looking forward to my retirement, I am even more excited to see what the next few years hold for the business.

“I am completely confident that under Darren’s leadership, Leitz will continue to set the market standard for quality and service.”

Strategic Leadership for the Future

Darren Howson reportedly joins Leitz with a formidable track record, bringing decades of leadership experience within the manufacturing sector. The company says his career has been defined by a commitment to process improvement, operational efficiency, and quality.

Of particular value to Leitz was Darren’s deep-rooted experience in the furniture manufacturing industry, a core sector for the company’s tooling solutions. His understanding of the challenges faced by modern manufacturers reportedly ensures that Leitz UK remains a partner-of-choice for businesses seeking to optimize their production.

Commenting on his new role, Darren said: “I knew from the moment I was introduced to Leitz that this was a company I wanted to be part of. They are quite simply the best at what they do. I am honoured to lead such a talented group of people and look forward to building on the incredible foundation Simon has built, ensuring we stay at the forefront of innovation for our customers.”

For more information about Leitz Tooling UK, visit: Precision tools and tooling systems | Leitz

More news

Heritage sliding sash 2026

Allan Brothers introduces Heritage sash window

Allan Brothers has introduced a Heritage Sash Window, designed for listed properties and period homes located in Conservation Areas and regions of natural beauty. As the latest addition to its Crafted Range of windows and doors, this solid-timber sash window draws on the company’s 200-year history of timber craftsmanship to reproduce the traditional joinery of… Continue reading Allan Brothers introduces Heritage sash window
Federation of Master Builders 2026

FMB report shows rise in major home renovations

Recent research from the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) State of the Trade report highlights that the three most common projects its members are undertaking are renovations (70%), home improvements (70%) and major works (65%). In addition, according to the latest Homebuilding & Renovating show survey, homeowners are willing to invest an average project spend of £151,000 in their properties rather than moving, and… Continue reading FMB report shows rise in major home renovations
Webs training 2026

What to consider before taking on an apprentice

In the latest in her series of articles for Modern Joinery News, Samarah Dawson, Business Development Manager at specialist furniture and interiors apprenticeship training provider, WEBS Training, asks: Is an apprentice right for your business? Taking on an apprentice is a fantastic thing, but after last issue’s run-down of the costs (catch up here if… Continue reading What to consider before taking on an apprentice