Graham Hateley, founder and Chairman of family-run thermal management leader Grayson Thermal Systems, died on 25 January. He was 89.
Mr Hateley and his wife Joyce founded Grayson as a radiator repair business in 1978 from a 1,000 square foot workshop in Birmingham. Across his 31-year spell as Managing Director, it grew significantly, with 1994 seeing Grayson become an OEM manufacturer of combustion coolers and heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems for coaches and buses.
In 2005, it further diversified into heating and cooling systems for diesel-electric hybrid vehicles before Mr Hateley stepped down as MD in 2009. In the Chairman role he continued to play an active role as a director of the business, which is now led by his sons Ian, James and Stuart.
Mr Hateley began his career in the heat exchange industry in 1955. Grayson remains rooted in the West Midlands but has grown into a global leader in thermal management, employing over 360 people across two continents and four divisions.
Today, the business is prominent in zero-emission applications and supplies advanced battery thermal management systems and heat pumps for both battery-electric and hydrogen fuel cell-electric vehicles.
The supplier calls Mr Hateley’s contribution to the coach and bus industry “immense.” It notes a “tireless dedication to advancing thermal management systems” that leaves “a legacy that will inspire generations to come,” adding that it was through Mr Hateley’s vision that the business grew into a global player in the thermal management industry.
A culture of respect and family values was core to Mr Hateley. That is upheld by his sons. Ian is Service Director, James is Supply Chain Director, and Stuart is Managing Director.
In a joint statement, the company says: “Graham was a larger-than-life character who touched everyone he met, and he will be hugely missed by the whole Grayson family. Those who knew him in the industry will feel the same loss.
“As the founder of Grayson, he built the foundations of who we are today. Most importantly, he instilled respect and strong values, which continue to guide our work. Graham’s values will live on, and the foundations he built will continue to underpin the business, both now and in the future.
“As an industry leader, Graham’s legacy is one of resilience, drive, and a commitment to his family and his people. His contributions to thermal management have shaped the sector’s future, ensuring efficient and sustainable solutions for decades to come.”
