Joining Whitecroft Lighting at its Greater Manchester headquarters, the award-winning IT expert from Barnsley will lead the company’s strategic adoption of artificial intelligence, drive cybersecurity accreditation, and improve data sharing to help support the company’s ambitious growth plans. 

Alongside leading Whitecroft Lighting’s IT strategy, Wilson will help shape Fagerhult Group’s wider approach to AI adoption and governance as a member of the senior leadership team.  

Working with leaders across the Group’s 13 international businesses, he will help establish a framework for the responsible use of AI and identify opportunities for technology to support the organisation’s ambitious growth plans, giving the Yorkshire leader a remit that spans Europe. 

Wilson joins Whitecroft with more than 20 years' experience leading technology and transformation programmes within manufacturing and multi-site organisations and was recently named in the CIO 100 Awards UK, one of the country’s most prestigious accolades for IT and technology leaders.

The appointment comes as Whitecroft Lighting and the wider Fagerhult Group continue to expand their digital capabilities in response to growing demand for connected lighting solutions. As smart technologies become increasingly integral to commercial buildings, the business is investing in the systems, data infrastructure and cybersecurity needed to support innovation, operational efficiency and customer service. 

Wilson said: “Joining Whitecroft Lighting at this stage of its growth journey is a fantastic opportunity. The North of England has a long tradition of manufacturing excellence and innovation, and Whitecroft is a great example of a northern business competing and succeeding on an international stage.  I'm looking forward to helping shape the next phase of its digital transformation.

"There is huge potential to harness AI across Whitecroft Lighting and advanced manufacturing, and one of my first priorities will be to align AI with the company’s business goals, whether that’s enhancing productivity, streamlining processes or supporting better decision-making, while maintaining the highest standards of cyber security and governance.” 

David Serif, Managing Director, Whitecroft Lighting, said: “Whitcroft Lighting and the Fagerhult Group are increasingly a technology and data-led business, so it’s essential that IT helps shape their strategic direction. 

 

“AI is set to have a huge impact on not only how we operate and manufacture as a business, but also the capabilities of increasingly intelligent lighting systems.      

“In Steve Whitecroft Lighting has a highly respected technology leader, with a strong track record of driving transformation in complex organisations. His expertise, strategic vision and practical approach to innovation make him a valuable addition to both Whitecroft Lighting and the wider Fagerhult Group.”