David Lyon’s tenure with Finlay

David’s career began during a very different era of industrial design, when Finlay’s design process relied on hand-drawn sketches and large drawing boards. Starting in the drawing office, a role he secured after a memorable on-the-spot drawing test with founder, John Finlay, his first assignment involved hand-drafting an axle for a Finlay Hydrascreen, in a long, drawing room office. “There were no computers when I started; everything was drawn by hand,” he recalls. “John Finlay used to sketch ideas on the back of cigarette packets. It didn’t always make sense at first, but we got stuck in and made it work.”

A key change was during the shift into digital in the 1990s. Having never used a computer, he was sent, alongside two colleagues, on a condensed training course in Belfast. “It was meant to take a year at technical college, and we were told to do it in three days,” he laughs. “We came back, and the next Monday, there was a computer sitting on my desk. I still only use two fingers, but it got the job done.”​

As Finlay evolved, so did David’s responsibilities. He transitioned from design to management, playing a pivotal role in establishing the brand’s first helpdesk and customer support department. Inheriting leadership positions due to his organisational skills and ability to support and mentor others, his people-first philosophy was crucial in building the foundational relationships with dealers and customers that the brand relies on today.

Known for his listening ear and practical, honest approach, David remained a consistent voice of support for anyone facing machine issues, whether under warranty or well beyond it. “I’ve always said, surround yourself with good people, give them responsibility, and let them go do the job. That’s what makes a team work,” he notes. “And when problems come up — don’t be afraid of them. Face them, solve them, and move forward.” Even in “heated debates,” his fairness was a hallmark of his approach to customer relations, and he always strove to get the “right people talking to the right people.”

Among his proudest accomplishments is his role in the development of the Finlay 393 screener in the early 1990s. This machine became a critical factor in the brand’s recovery and growth after the tragic and untimely passing of John Finlay in 1986. He also played a key role in the successful launch and expansion of the Finlay crusher range. David holds a particular pride in the Finlay 883 screener, which he describes as “robust, reliable, and built to get the job done, no fuss — a bit like myself!”

Throughout his tenure, David witnessed the transition of Finlay from a family-run business to a global entity. His legacy is etched not only in the machines he helped design and support but in the culture of respect and dedication he fostered. Matt Dickson, Business Line Director for Finlay, said, “While David’s presence will be missed, his contributions have laid a solid foundation for Finlay’s continued success, upholding the strap line David himself is proud of, “Strong Heritage, Strong Future.” On behalf of the entire team, I thank him for his valuable contributions to Finlay over the years and wish him a happy and healthy retirement.”