After 44 years at UK-based Parkinson-Spencer Refractories Ltd, including 33 years as Managing Director, David Parkinson has decided to stand down in favour of his son Simon Parkinson, who has taken over as Managing Director. PSR is a family business with a history dating back as far as 1800 and this sense of stewardship for the benefit of future generations has ensured its continuity to date. David Parkinson’s daughter, Joanne is also involved in the business as Commercial Director and Company Secretary. With the assistance of a strong and supportive management team, Simon and Joanne Parkinson become the eighth generation to manage the company since it was founded in 1800 by Caleb Spencer. David Parkinson retains a part time role as Chairman.