A Legacy Built on Leadership and Growth
The de Laszlo family founded Harwin in 1952 and Damon has been instrumental in running and growing the company since the 1980s.
Expanding Influence Beyond Harwin
As well as his current position as president of Harwin , Damon sits on the boards of many companies in Europe and the United States and is the Chairman of the Economic Research Council (ERC), a UK-based organisation dedicated to discussing and debating economic issues.
Championing Education and Charitable Causes
Damon is also a trustee of the de Laszlo Foundation, a charitable trust that, since 1987, has focused on advancing and promoting education and research in art, science, medicine and economics.
Damon commented: “It is a fantastic surprise to be honoured in such a way for things that one has always enjoyed doing, not least as it is rare for such awards to be given to industrialists. Clearly Harwin’s growth was one of the factors behind the decision so I would like to recognise that the company’s success has been a true team effort, achieved in no small part by growing and nurturing employees through our commitment to internal development.”
Andrew McQuilken, who became Harwin’s CEO last month at the same time as Damon became president, adds: “Having been with Harwin since 1999 I have seen first-hand the significant contribution that Damon has made to this company, the industry as a whole and the charities in which he plays an active role. His passion and energy are an inspiration and his focus on growing businesses from within through active apprenticeship programs has been fundamental to Harwin’s ongoing success.”
Honouring a Legacy: Continuing the Journey after the CBE Honour
In a press statement, the team at Harwin said they were honoured to celebrate this moment and continue building on the strong foundation Damon has helped to create.
