POWER
Economic situation in the electronics industry in the UK: Rutronik UK/Ireland marks 20 years amid
industry shifts and leadership transition By Ron Smith, country manager Rutronik UK/Ireland until August 2025, and Lee Morris, country manager UK/Ireland since September 2025 interview on leadership transition and industry outlook in a post-Brexit era
A
s Rutronik UK/Ireland celebrates its 20th anniversary, the company is at a meaningful crossroads. It not only marks two decades of growth and customer partnerships but also navigating a leadership transition and a shifting industry landscape shaped by Brexit. After four decades in the electronics industry, Ron Smith is retiring as the country manager of Rutronik UK/Ireland. He built a strong regional presence, fostered long-term customer relationships, and steered the company through technological evolution and market disruption. Smith is passing the baton to his longtime colleague Lee Morris, who has 20 years of Rutronik experience. the past, assess the present and look ahead to Rutronik’s future in the UK and Ireland.
Ron, after 40 years in the industry, what stands out most as you look back?
Ron Smith: It has been an incredible journey. When I started, the electronics industry was very different, it was more localised, less digital and less global. Over the years, I have seen Rutronik UK/Ireland grow from a small regional operation into a trusted partner for customers across sectors in the UK and Ireland. What stands out most is the resilience of our team and the loyalty of our customers. Even through economic downturns, technological shifts and now Brexit, we have remained focused on delivering value and staying close to the market.
Lee, you have worked at Rutronik for two decades. What does this transition mean for you, both personally and professionally?
Lee Morris: It is an honor to follow in Ron’s
footsteps. I have had the privilege of growing within Rutronik UK/Ireland, and I understand the nuances of our market, customers and internal culture. This transition is about building a strong foundation and adapting to new challenges. I am excited to lead the team into the next phase, especially as we navigate the post-Brexit environment.
Early in your career at Rutronik, developing supply chain solutions
36 NOVEMBER 2025 | ELECTRONICS FOR ENGINEERS
for Rutronik customers in the UK was a game changer. Could you please explain this achievement in more detail?
Lee Morris: Everyone I came across at that solutions. We had to do something to get a foot in the door and give people a reason to consider us. At the time, the UK market was saturated with stock-holding distributors. We also had to lead with passive components,
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