Welcome to OnestopNDT! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Lulu Crosthwaite-Eyre, the Managing Director of Cygnus Instruments in the UK. With over 19 years at the helm, Ms. Crosthwaite-Eyre has overseen the development and production of ruggedized ultrasonic thickness gauges essential for inspecting industrial infrastructure.
In this interview, she shares insights into her journey, the challenges and achievements of Cygnus Instruments, and her thoughts on leadership and innovation in the NDT industry. Thank you, Ms. Crosthwaite-Eyre, for joining us. Let's dive in!
Hi, Ms. Crosthwaite-Eyre. Hope you’re having an amazing day. Could you please introduce yourself to our lovely audience?
Hi. I’m having a lovely day, thanks. And thank you for the opportunity to be interviewed by OnestopNDT. I am Managing Director of Cygnus Instruments in the UK. Cygnus designs and manufactures ruggedised ultrasonic thickness gauges for inspection of industrial infrastructure, as part of structural integrity monitoring.
NDT is often a male-dominated industry. Was it a conscious decision to enter this field?
It was not a conscious decision for me, as a woman, to enter the NDT market. I’m assuming what you’re calling the NDT market is the Non-Destructive Testing segment within the Oil & Gas sector. Throughout Cygnus’ 40-year history, it has made products, which test in a non-destructive way, but our products were originally designed for ship surveyors and other niche users, such as commercial divers or remotely operated subsea vehicles. Cygnus, as a company, entered the NDT market in 2015, when we launched our Mark 5 generation of standard surface (i.e. not subsea) thickness gauges. This was only 10 years ago and it was a conscious decision for the company.
Ms. Crosthwaite-Eyre, you have been the Managing Director of Cygnus Instruments Ltd for over 19 years. That’s really commendable. In today’s times, where people are often seen switching jobs, what made you stick with Cygnus for almost two decades?
Cygnus was originally founded by my father. Sadly he had passed away 17 years before I joined the company, but the ownership remained within my family and I count myself very lucky to have the opportunity to be part of Cygnus. I do have a tendency to stick with things and it has been a driver for me to preserve a legacy for my father, now this is a foundation on which we can build.
You have been at the helm of Cygnus for almost two decades, could you share one experience/ incident that is really unforgettable?
There have been many, but celebrating the company’s 40th anniversary last year was really great and particularly meaningful to me. Another experience is right now we are preparing new manufacturing premises and even though it’s very challenging, it’s a progressive and exciting process.
Let’s get to some serious questions…
How do you approach decision-making in your role as MD, particularly when faced with tough choices or competing priorities?
I’m analytical so I find it hard when there is incomplete data. If possible I tap into other people’s experiences, ignore the emotion being conveyed and remind myself there is no perfect decision! I look long-term and prioritise what is right by our values.
Can you discuss any recent achievements or milestones that Cygnus has achieved under your leadership?
We are really proud of our new Zone 0 ultrasonic thickness gauge, which is unique. It’s called the Cygnus 1 Ex and is being well-received by the market (not just in Oil & Gas). It is highly ruggedised and has features which appeal to UT Level II and III inspectors, including adjustable gates and time-corrected gain. Most importantly it is safe for use in the most highly rated potentially explosive atmospheres, which means it won’t produce a spark, even if it’s faulty. So, there is no need for Hot Work Permits or Shutdowns. I’m proud of our team for launching this product during the pandemic and meeting demand throughout this supply chain crisis. So far there hasn’t been a single warranty return in 2.5 years.
How do you prioritize innovation and stay ahead in a competitive market?
This is hard for small companies, with limited resources, but we want to stay niche, so we gather feedback and research our markets to optimise our product development decisions. Our design engineers work on team development projects and also allocate time to individual innovation. We take a long-term view of everything and have a “no blame” culture. This means all ideas are welcome and mistakes are celebrated as learning.
What strategies do you employ to ensure strong relationships with clients, partners, and stakeholders?
We live our brand values of reliability and integrity.
Well, the next question is really an interesting one. How do you handle crisis management and ensure business continuity?
Lots of open, honest, calm communication. Get everyone involved and understand the situation. A crisis can be an opportunity for the team to react well. Like all businesses, we have a business continuity plan. I keep an eye on and invest in avoiding or managing high-impact or high-probability risks. I carry my responsibilities with a view to the next generation.
Ms. Crosthwaite-Eyre, could you discuss any ongoing research or projects you're working on, and what insights or outcomes do you hope to achieve?
Of course, that’s something I won’t be disclosing! 😊
Ms. Crosthwaite-Eyre, if you don’t mind, we’d like to get a small peek into your personal life.
What is your leadership mantra that has helped you thrive for so many years at Cygnus?
My mantra changes. When I first joined Cygnus it was “not to make any business decision based on emotion”. From my senior management team, my mantra shifted to “what’s best for the company”. Right now the business is changing a lot (and I need to keep up!), so it’s quite personal but my mantra is to “trust myself”.
So, how does life look for you outside of work, Ms. Crosthwaite-Eyre?
I have 2 very funny sons and an extremely funny husband, so they keep me entertained! But I also need time by myself and I find walking my dog helps me to process life. I like to keep fit and try to do some yoga or meditation every day.
Do you have any advice for the newbies who are going to be a part of the NDT world? What’s that one specific skill they should possess to excel in this field?
Know what your competition is up to, but don’t be afraid to be yourself and do things your way. (Perhaps that applies to everything, not just NDT !)
And finally, what are your thoughts on Cygnus Instruments Ltd. and OnestopNDT’s collaborative marketing efforts? Do you think our efforts to provide real, authentic and accurate content are helping Cygnus Instruments Ltd. reach newer markets?
Cygnus started collaborating with OnestopNDT in 2018. Since then, OnestopNDT has expanded its channels and helped Cygnus reach a broader audience across various countries. Its industry-focused content shared via multiple digital outlets has resonated with NDT professionals, strengthening Cygnus’ connection with NDT engineers and end users. It’s been a positive journey of marketing collaboration with OnestopNDT.
