LDC Top 50 2025
Lou Ellis-Frankland
CEO
Mansfield Pollard
Lou Ellis-Frankland joined Mansfield Pollard as sales director in 2017, planning to stay just two years. Instead, she developed a strong connection with the 160-year-old manufacturer, known for designing and producing precision air handling systems that cool data centres and deliver clean, controlled air to healthcare and critical environments.
In 2020, she led a management buy-out and became CEO. Since then, Mansfield Pollard’s sales have grown from £10 million to nearly £30 million, with a target of £50 million by 2027. Lou has reinvested 40 per cent of last year’s profits into people, technology and facilities. “I’m ambitious for growth,” she says.
Innovation and sustainability drive everything we do, shaping a better future for all.”
Q&A
What drives you?
I’m driven by the challenge of transforming a business and its culture to unlock its full potential. Before Mansfield Pollard, I spent 17 years at a lighting company, starting in quotations and working my way up to sales director by 29. During that time, I travelled extensively across the Middle East and Asia, learning how to grow a business and bring people along on that journey. Since joining Mansfield Pollard, we’ve moved away from a traditional mill-style manufacturing culture by introducing gym facilities, mental health support and even nap pods, small changes that reflect a bigger commitment. Our engagement scores have risen from 46 to over 90 and last year were named one of the Sunday Times’ Top 100 Places to Work. Our 20 longest-serving staff have been here a combined 606 years, which shows the strength of our culture and team and shows me that we are getting it right.
How important is sustainability to you?
Sustainability is central to Mansfield Pollard’s strategy. For five consecutive years, we have been carbon negative, offsetting twice the CO2e we emit, demonstrating clear leadership in environmental responsibility. We actively engage our supply chain through a tiered sustainability programme, encouraging suppliers to reduce their carbon footprints. Ambitious carbon reduction targets are set annually to drive continuous improvement. Our products reflect this commitment, with energy-efficient air handling units, refurbishment solutions that extend product life, and innovative data centre cooling technologies. Sustainability is integral to how we operate, innovate and plan for the future.
What do you do outside work?
I’m committed to opening doors for young people, knowing how early support can truly transform lives. I help mentor children in the care system through small workshops and also work as a magistrate in West Yorkshire. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my two teenage sons and our black labrador in the Yorkshire Dales, where we share hobbies like Taekwondo and outdoor activities. I also enjoy racing cars, which provides a welcome thrill alongside my professional life.
