A successful valve manufacturer always looking to improve
Pros
Weir Valves & Controls UK Ltd is part of Weir Flow Control, which is one of three major divisions of Weir Group. Weir group is the parent organization, a very successful multinational based in Glasgow. It has about 14,000+ employees in over 70 countries. Although there are about 180-200 employees at the WVC UK facility in Elland, there is always the sense that as part of something much larger, everyone has a chance to do their best to help it succeed. The company has a long, rich history. It has adapted to changes, made adjustments, weathered tough times, and has managed to evolve into a very successful firm over time. Despite a downturn in the oil and gas market, it has continued to defy the odds and pushed both its nuclear, non-nuclear, and power systems to new levels. There have been many oil and gas projects won in the last few years, with several new ones in the pipeline for 2018, and the next couple of years. In addition to company-wide mandatory safety training, there is a great apprenticeship program, mentoring and training opportunities for staff at all levels, and chances to continue learning for those who'd like to move up. There is a strong safety culture and an amazing record of over nine years without any LTIs (lost time incidents). That's pretty amazing for a manufacturing facility. There is diversity and inclusion, with opportunities for all.
Cons
The very competitive, hard-driven nature of the work, and the pressure to successfully complete so many projects in a short amount of time, can often result in a very stressful, high-pressure work environment. Unfortunately, there are times when it does take its toll, but overall, people do their best and it really shows. As in any workplace, there are those who work very hard to continually improve things, while others seem content to do only what is required of them. This can be discouraging at times, especially if some are exceptionally busy, and see others that are not. There seems to be a high rate of resignations, but ironically, some have come back to work for this company two or more times.