A conversation with Managing Director, Paul Kinsella
To mark an incredible 40-year milestone, we sat down with Paul Kinsella to reflect on his journey through Silicone Engineering, from his first days on the shop floor to leading the business today.
What was Silicone Engineering like when you first joined?
“When I joined in 1986, we were based in Brookhouse Lane in Blackburn, part of what used to be the old Brookhouse Mill site, one of the largest Victorian cotton mills in the area during the Industrial Revolution.
By that point, the site had become a mix of different businesses. You had companies like Perry’s Peugeot car dealership nearby, Blackburn Corrugated, the Craven Heifer pub, and Silicone Engineering.
We were employing around 150 people at the time and were very much a UK-focused business. Most of the products we made was supplied into domestic appliances and white goods. Our main product lines were sponge profiles and insulated cables.
There’s a moment that always stands out to me, one of the original founders and chief chemist of the business, Frank Williams, retired the very week I started. He was the last of the three entrepreneurs who set the company up in 1959. Unknown to everyone including me there was this real crossover moment “passing of the torch” between the original era of the business and the future leadership team of myself and Mustaq Patel.”
How has the business and industry evolved over the years?
“One of the most significant changes is how international we’ve become. Back then, we were almost entirely UK-based. Today, more than 70% of our sales revenue are export-driven, particularly across North America and Europe.
We’ve also grown significantly, revenue has increased around six fold over that period. Alongside that, we’ve introduced more product and process innovation, standardisation and semi-automation into our manufacturing processes.
Another big shift is the diversity of markets we serve now. It’s much broader and with more depth than it used to be.
And the competitive landscape has changed completely. In 1986, competition was mainly regional or national. Now it’s global. Market disruptions that used to be localised are now globalised.”
What are you most proud of during your time here?
“I started in 1986 as a machine setter on the shop floor and progressing through many roles such as Team Leaders, Factory Planner, Purchasing Manager, Quality Manager, Operations Manager before working my way through to Managing Director in 2007. I also want to acknowledge the support and trust over that 40 year career of my colleague Mustaq Patel and more recently newer members of the SEL family.
I’m proud to have progressed through the business and contributed to its success over that time. I’ve always tried to be hands-on, transparent, and approachable in how I lead.
Guiding the business through challenging periods stands out, the early 2000s downturn, the global financial crisis, and the COVID / Supply Chain challenges of 2020 onwards.
I also led the process of bringing the business into Rogers Corporation in 2021, which was a major milestone and provided the business with future scale and sustainability.
“I feel like I’ve always made a real difference and contribution to the success and progress of Silicone Engineering over five decades, I’ve never come to work just to make up the numbers up”.
And I’ve always been open to sharing knowledge and helping people who want to develop and succeed.”
If you had to sum up your 40 years here in a snapshot, what would they be?
“It’s been demanding, both physically and mentally but equally very rewarding.
I’ve always had that inquisitive mindset, wanting to learn, improve, and find better ways of doing things.”
What excites you most about the future of the business?
“I believe the business is in the right hands with Rogers Corporation and well positioned for the opportunities that come next.
Our core product and process lines, particularly silicone sponge, are niche and differentiated vs competitor offerings that facilitate future growth. We’ve built a strong foundation here, and that gives me confidence in what comes next.”
And on a personal note, what’s next?
“I’m starting to think about what comes next for me personally, where I might settle when I retire but it needs to be warm, golden beaches alongside access to chilled beers to enjoy the next chapter.”
Reflections from the Team
Paul’s 40-year milestone is not only a personal achievement, it’s one recognised across the business by those who have worked alongside him over the years.
Dariia Shepel, Head of Commercial & Marketing:
“It was a true honour to present Paul with his certificate for 40 years of service this week. Paul has shaped Silicone Engineering into what it is today – a unit where people look out for each other and share an absolute belief in what we do. Beyond his leadership, Paul has been a true mentor to so many of us, sharing his experience and guiding our professional growth.”
Jason Smith, Financial Controller:
“After 40 years with the company, Paul embodies the very spirit and resilience that define who we are. Having worked across nearly every department, his depth of understanding and hands-on experience have shaped both our culture and our continued success. His leadership stands as a testament to dedication, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.”
Graham Walmsley, Business Development Manager – UK & Scandinavia:
“I have worked under Paul’s leadership over many decades and what an incredible journey it has been. Thank you for your guidance and support over the years, congratulations on achieving 40 years of service.”
Samshuddin Patel, Solid Extrusion Team Leader:
“My journey with Silicone Engineering started in July 1988. The first person I worked with was Paul Kinsella. I worked with Paul for several years. I always found him to be an excellent team leader, motivator and a trouble-shooter. Paul has always been a team worker and has created a family atmosphere at Silicone Engineering. Under Paul’s leadership and vision, Silicone Engineering has survived three recessions and is still growing year on year. Congratulations to Paul Kinsella on his 40 years at Silicone Engineering and hoping for many more.”
A Lasting Contribution
From the historic Brookhouse Mill site to a globally recognised manufacturer, Paul’s 40-year journey is one of dedication, resilience, contribution and impact on the business and it’s key customers.
A career that began alongside the final chapter of the company’s founders has helped shape its future, bridging generations of innovation, leadership, and growth.