Fischer Panda UK confirms leadership transition

Marine power and system solutions specialist Fischer Panda UK has announced a leadership transition and senior management restructure.

Founder and managing director Barry Fower has transferred day-to-day leadership to his son, Chris Fower, who becomes managing director with effect from January 2026.

Barry Fower, who established the business in 1994, continues in the role of chief executive officer, providing oversight across marine, defence and specialist vehicle activities, with continued involvement in specialist projects and defence applications.

Chris Fower joined the business in 2014 in a business development role and later became sales and marketing director. His responsibilities have included the introduction of the company’s current CRM system, and development of the firm’s marketing channels, including a new website.

“These changes represent an exciting new chapter for Fischer Panda UK-Power Solutions,” says Barry Fower. “As a family-run business, our focus has always been on reliability and quality. I am confident that Chris will uphold our legacy, ensuring customers continue to receive dependable onboard solutions backed by our in-house engineering expertise.”

The company now employs over 20 people. As part of the restructure, two internal promotions have been made following the retirement of technical sales and business development director David Payne.

Louise Sims has been promoted to commercial director, having previously worked as commercial manager for four years. Her remit includes responsibility for the commercial side of the business, internal operations and ISO 9001:2015 compliance.

Ian Saunders has been promoted to sales director. He has led the specialist vehicle sales division for the past four years and now oversees both vehicle and marine sales activities. The appointment follows the addition of Stuart Jones as vehicle applications sales executive in 2024.

“I am proud to recognise the exceptional talent within our team, who play a vital role in driving our growth,” says Chris Fower, managing director. “As we evolve, it’s important we remain grounded in our engineering expertise and dedication to customer care, while embracing opportunities in emerging sub-niche markets and environmentally conscious solutions.”

Louise Sims and Ian Saunders join the existing leadership team, which includes Ashlea Fower, finance director, and Chris Baker, engineering director. The operational structure is otherwise unchanged.

Fischer Panda UK-Power Solutions supplies and installs onboard power, climate control and water purification systems for marine, defence and specialist vehicle applications in the United Kingdom. The business is based in Verwood and operates as a distributor for a range of equipment manufacturers, alongside in-house engineering and installation services.