HIMA Group Strengthens Leadership with New CEO Appointment for Sella Controls

HIMA Group appoints Carl Ramsden as CEO of Sella Controls effective October 2025. This strategic leadership change enhances the company’s position in safety automation markets. The appointment supports HIMA’s expansion in process and rail industries globally. According to MarketsandMarkets, the industrial safety market will reach $8.6 billion by 2027.

Executive Leadership Background and Expertise

Carl Ramsden brings extensive industrial automation experience to his new role. His career spans over twenty years in technology and manufacturing sectors. He held senior positions at major chemical and automation companies. This diverse background provides comprehensive industry perspective. Therefore, he understands both manufacturer and end-user requirements effectively.

Organizational Structure and Management Team

Sella Controls maintains strong executive leadership across key functions. The management team includes experienced professionals in critical roles:

• Carl Ramsden as Chief Executive Officer
• Chris Parr as Chief Technology Officer
• Eddy Turnock as Chief Sales Officer
• John Blackwell retiring as Chief Financial Officer

Strategic Integration and Market Positioning

HIMA Group acquired Sella Controls in February 2023 successfully. The integration process proceeded smoothly and efficiently. Central IT systems harmonized within short timeframes. Sella Controls now serves as regional center for UK and Ireland. Additionally, it operates as global railway excellence center.

Industry Focus and Growth Opportunities

Sella Controls targets significant expansion in key industrial sectors. The company focuses on process industries and railway automation. These markets demand high-reliability safety systems. Furthermore, they require comprehensive control solutions. According to PLCDCSHUB analysis, safety system demand grows at 7.2% annually.

Global Safety Automation Market Context

Industrial safety systems represent critical automation components. Safety PLCs and emergency shutdown systems ensure operational protection. These systems integrate with standard control architectures. They prevent accidents in hazardous process environments. Major industries include oil and gas, chemicals, and power generation.

Workforce and Operational Infrastructure

Sella Controls maintains substantial operational presence in the UK. The company employs over 130 professionals currently. Operations span two primary locations in Stockport and Ashby. This workforce develops and implements safety automation solutions. Their expertise supports critical infrastructure protection.

Leadership Transition and Strategic Vision

HIMA Group CEO Jörg de la Motte endorses the leadership appointment. He emphasizes Ramsden’s strategic management capabilities. The appointment aims to accelerate growth in target markets. Value-driven leadership will strengthen global market position. This transition supports long-term business development objectives.

PLCDCSHUB Industry Perspective

Safety automation requires specialized expertise and reliable products. Key considerations for industrial safety systems include:

• Certification to international safety standards
• Integration with existing control architectures
• Cybersecurity protection for safety networks
• Lifecycle management and support services
• Compliance with industry-specific regulations

Future Market Trends and Developments

Industrial safety continues evolving with technology advancements. Cybersecurity integration becomes increasingly important. Functional safety standards expand to new industries. Digital twin technology enhances safety system validation. These trends shape future safety automation requirements.

Exploring safety automation solutions for your industrial applications? Discover comprehensive resources and expert insights at PLCDCSHUB.

Frequently Asked Questions

What industries typically require safety automation systems like those from HIMA?
Process industries including oil and gas, chemical processing, and power generation represent primary markets. Railway signaling and transportation systems also demand high-integrity safety solutions. Any industry with potentially hazardous operations benefits from certified safety automation.

How do safety PLCs differ from standard control systems?
Safety PLCs incorporate redundant architectures and self-testing capabilities. They undergo rigorous certification processes according to IEC 61508 and related standards. These systems feature failsafe operation and predictable response times for critical safety functions.

What factors should influence safety system supplier selection?
Consider certification credentials, industry experience, and technical support capabilities. Evaluate system integration features and cybersecurity protections. Review product lifecycle management and long-term support availability for comprehensive operational assurance.