It is with great sadness that we confirm the passing of Simon Penwright, Operations Director, Kolbus AutoBox Ltd, following a battle with brain cancer. He was 52 years of age.
Simon joined the corrugated industry back in 1997, when he was recruited as a salesman by Andrew & Suter Ltd at the age of 26. Starting in sales, he was an engineer at heart, quickly rising through the ranks and became only the second non-family member of the Board of Directors for the company. Simon then transferred to Autobox Ltd as General Manager, when Andrew & Suter was acquired in 2012. He was retained when Autobox was sold to Kolbus UK Ltd in 2019, holding the position of Operations Director.
“Simon was instrumental in improving manufacturing and led the relocation process to the current facilities in Houghton Regis,” says Greg Bird, Managing Director, Kolbus UK Ltd. “He was a critical member of the businesses over many years and was a welcoming individual when I became involved in 2019. I will always remember Simon as not only a highly skilled professional and a very respected leader of the manufacturing business, but also a trusted colleague and a true friend , who has demonstrated not only his bravery over the last 12 months but also his quality as an amazing human being. We are still in shock at his tragic passing, but know that he fought as hard as he could, with the loving support of his friends and family.”
Simon leaves behind his wife, Emily, and four girls – Sophie, Becki, Megan and Maisie.
The funeral will be held on Monday 11th December in Aylesbury. Please email Emily Penwright at [email protected] for further information on the funeral.
