Tectra Automation has a new General Manager effective 1 February 2021. Chris Riley, with a track record of leading engineering companies in South Africa and abroad, succeeds Kevin Lombard who leaves the company after 20 years of service. 

Chris, who holds a National Higher Diploma and BSc Degree in Mechanical Engineering, as well as a Master of Business Administration Degree, also has significant business transformation experience.

He has 25 years’ managerial experience across an array of businesses in the engineering industry, from managerial to executive roles. Engineering sectors include EPC and asset management services, compression technologies, packaging, engineering, and business transformation. 

His international experience was gained from executive positions in Asia, Europe, UK and the USA, complemented with sales and service management roles across Africa and the Middle East.

Chris, who expanded on his tertiary education with several managerial and entrepreneurial courses from South Africa, the UK and USA, is optimistic about his new role.  “I will be working with the Tectra team to build and implement a strategy that will take the company into the future with sustainable long-term profitability.”  

With the view that “success in business is achieved through its people, not just its products and brands”, he is clear about his responsibilities. “To achieve my strategy, my responsibility is to lead, mentor and build succession in the business to benefit Tectra Automation and the Bosch Rexroth South Africa Group.” 

Asked about career highlights, Chris says the most impactful highlights have come from watching people reporting to him grow and achieve their full potential. “They grow as an individual and contribute to the success of the business,” he says. “I have also enjoyed working for international companies with great brands, great history and great legacy. In so doing, I have been privileged to work with a lot of people globally, many of whom who have become household friends.”

Gillian Allin

Group Marketing Manager