The manager of a leading Basildon firm has been named in the UK’s most inspiring leaders list.

Peter Jarvis, managing director of Basildon-based automotive design and engineering firm Contechs Limited has been included in the list of inspiring and innovative leaders, compiled each year by financial and business advisers Grant Thornton.

Mr Jarvis features in the latest ‘Faces of a Vibrant Economy’ list which highlights individuals who lead by example and show how profits with a purpose leads to sustainable business growth.

Contechs works with some of the world’s largest automotive clients, including Ford and Jaguar Land Rover, and employs more than 1,000 people working from offices in Basildon, Germany and Slovakia.

Mr Jarvis said: “The minds of tomorrow have been key in driving the rapid rate of growth we’ve seen in the business to date. I see Contechs as having the ability to shape our industry in the same way Apple has mobile phones. It’s important to pick business champions and learn from their best qualities to accelerate your learning and development capabilities.”

Mr Jarvis joined Contechs in 2003 as director of engineering before becoming managing director of the firm in 2006. In the last financial year, the company recorded a £67 million turnover.

Denise Rossiter, chief executive of Essex Chambers of Commerce, said “We know that there are some truly inspiring business leaders in our county.

“Basildon is somewhere that often seems to keep its talents and successes hidden away so I am delighted to see someone like Peter recognised in this way and my congratulations go to him.”