Like many of our latest materials testing recruits, Luigi was (in his words) “lured to Igne” by two things: the calibre of investment we are making in people, equipment and systems - and, of course, Peter Godfrey.

Peter floated the idea of joining Igne a while back, but it took a bit of time - and a lot of strategic vision - but the stars finally aligned.  Now three weeks in, one holiday down, and Luigi is diving headfirst into supporting the labs and enabling greatness.

We caught up with him between site visits (and summer holidays) to talk about quality, cruise ships, and the King...

What does your job involve?

Officially, I’m Head of Quality and Training.  In practice?  It’s a lot of travelling, supporting every one of our labs, and helping build the systems and people to make sure we continue to grow without losing excellent quality.

I’ve been to Aston Clinton and Barnsley already, and after my second summer holiday, I’ll be heading to Bellshill and Chester-le-Street.

My take on quality is this: compliance is the bare minimum.  UKAS accreditations are essential, but real quality means building systems that support our people, help us deliver excellent service, and win long-term loyalty from our clients.

Training is the same.  It’s not just CPD and ticking boxes.  It’s about building confidence, pride and progression, giving people the tools and understanding to do their job brilliantly and keep growing.

What’s your professional background?

I spent my recent years at a competitor, (which should probably remain nameless), where I helped lead on quality and training.  

Before that, I chose to make a change mid-career after COVID furlough left me uncertain whether I’d even have a job to return to.  So, I used the time to learn more; I taught myself Python, did cyber security courses, HR certifications, and pushed myself to gain Chartered Quality Professional status.

That’s when I met Peter.  I’d been in my old company a long time, but I was ready for the next step.  And now here I am.

What motivates you?

Helping people develop.  It’s as simple as that.

Whether that’s mentoring someone toward incorporated engineer status, supporting technicians, or just listening to what people actually need in terms of training and development, I get real satisfaction from watching others progress.

I’m also quietly competitive.  I want Igne’s labs to continue to be the best.  I want people to walk in and know our teams have been brilliantly trained and supported.  That’s what I’m here to underpin and build on.

Who or what inspired you?

Two people, one positive and one… let’s say “motivational by reverse”.

My English maternal grandfather was an Army officer who served in WWII and Korea.  He worked his way up through the ranks and was known for going to the front line, not because he had to, but to check troops had what they needed from him.  He set up mobile bakeries using scrap parts to boost their morale.

That’s leadership - not management - and it inspires me still.

The other influence was my dad, an Italian barber in Leicester.  He didn’t want me to follow in his footsteps; he was expected to enter the family business and didn’t want that for me.

He nudged me toward engineering instead.  Ironically, I did used to wash hair in a salon on Saturdays.  Let’s just say I wasn’t destined for a future in hairdressing...

What’s a standout career moment for you?

Two things: first, becoming an Incorporated Engineer with the Institution of Civil Engineers.  I did it all on my own, with no employer support.  It was tough, but I was determined.

Second, setting up an environmental chemistry lab for a previous company - completely outside my area of expertise.  I had to learn everything about MCERTS and project-managed the build from scratch.  That lab’s still going today.

Tell us something people might not know about you...

I’ve met both Prince Charles, (now King Charles of course), and Jimmy Savile.  One of those meetings aged well, the other... not so much.

I’ve also dragged my wife into this industry.  Karen, used to be a legal secretary and nursery teacher.  I needed someone to help with data input and brought her in as a temp.  She was so good, someone else poached her - and she’s been writing reports ever since.

I have two beautiful daughters, Daniella, who has a degree in fashion design and works at Loughborough Uni and Isabella who’s a primary school teacher.

What does the future hold for Igne?

Opportunity - and quality.  CEO Rob Hunter’s made it clear: we’ll grow, but we’ll do it right.  That means continuing to invest in training, in standards, and in our people.  That’s what attracted me.

I was especially impressed that quality is one of Igne’s formal values - it’s rare to see it written down, let alone truly embedded in the culture.  We’re building something really special here, and I’m proud to be part of it.

Final question… any more holidays on the horizon?

I’m so glad you asked!  I’m off on a Mediterranean cruise – think Cadiz, Palma, Ibiza, Sardinia, and Gibraltar.

That’s it, dear reader, I hung up the phone on Luigi at that point.  Jealousy is not a pretty trait – there’s nothing I can offer in defence!  To learn more about the materials testing excellence Igne offers, have a look here.