In focus with Tony Bates, Manufacturing Manager
Tony Bates, Manufacturing Manager
“It’s been quite the journey”
For Manufacturing Manager Tony Bates, May 23rd, 2005, was the beginning of a career journey that has seen him progress from the shop floor to senior management.
“I joined Dennis Eagle as a time-served Fabricator Welder, looking for a new challenge,” Tony recalls. “Being from Coventry and knowing Dennis Eagle’s reputation, I applied and I’ve never looked back.”
Since then, Tony has made the most of every opportunity that came his way: “In early 2012, I stepped up to the role of Production Coordinator. Not long after, I was asked to become the Production Line Manager in the fabrication shop. I went from overalls to a shirt and tie in no time!” His progression didn’t stop there; by 2015, his Production Manager role incorporated further responsibilities, before in 2023, all manufacturing came under his management. In 2024, he reached another milestone when as Manufacturing Manager, he also oversaw the plant paint and the vehicle systems elements of the operation.
A global perspective
Tony is thriving in his new role, embracing the responsibilities that now stretch beyond the Warwick factory gates. “I’m forging new relationships across the group, working with Terberg and Ros Roca. It’s exciting to be part of a global team, building networks and friendships.”
Ask Tony what’s fuelled his journey and it’s clear to him: “Integrity, loyalty, resilience, motivation and dedication have been key but what really stands out is seeing my colleagues follow similar career paths, rising from junior roles into senior positions. That resonates with me. Now, I want to open doors for others and help them progress here too.”
That eye to the future means Tony is a firm advocate of Dennis Eagle’s commitment to apprenticeships, ensuring the skills so synonymous with the West Midlands continue to be taught. “Manufacturing is vital to our region and the country as a whole,” adds Tony. “I firmly believe the UK remains one of the best places for manufacturing and it’s crucial we continue to develop skills in this sector.”
A passion for manufacturing
The jobs and processes might have evolved but Tony’s enthusiasm for manufacturing remains as strong as ever. “Every time I see one of our vehicles roll off the production line, I get a huge buzz. It never gets old.” That feeling is something Tony is keen to share more of in 2025. “I’d encourage anyone to see our factory firsthand."
Whilst the thought of a production line might conjure up images of identical trucks rolling out of the factory, Tony explains the reality couldn’t be more different. “Our configurator allows customers to tailor their vehicles to their exact specifications. With hundreds of variants, we can supply the best-suited refuse collection vehicles across their fleet, specifying every element.”
Family and football
With four children, Tony’s weekends are a whirlwind of driving them to activities and spending time with family and friends. “Before becoming the ‘Dad Taxi’ I wouldn’t think anything of jumping in the car and heading north to watch Glasgow Rangers play but now family comes first.” While his priorities have shifted outside work, his passion for his job remains unwavering. “I love what I do, and I love seeing others succeed. That’s what keeps me going.”
