George Kynoch (22 August 1834 – 28 February 1891) was the founder ofIMI plc, one of the United Kingdom's largest engineering businesses.
George Kynoch was born atPeterhead inAberdeenshire and educated at the local school. He first worked as aninsurance clerk in Glasgow and then as abank clerk inWorcester.[1]
After working for a while at larger bank branch in Birmingham, in 1856 he decided to join Pursall & Phillips,percussion cap manufacturers, in Birmingham.[1] An explosion in 1859 destroyed the works, killing 19 of the 70 employees.[1][2] As a result, the firm moved to on four acres of land atWitton in 1862.[3][1]
In 1863, Kynoch took over the business, which was subsequently renamedG. Kynoch and Co.[2][1] TheLion Works, as it became known, quickly secured contracts to supplyammunition to the British and TurkishGovernments.[1] In 1884 his interests were bought out and he was simply employed asmanaging director.[4]
In 1886, he becameMember of Parliament forAston Manor and in1887 he was appointed president ofAston Villa Football Club.[1] These roles distracted him from his business and in 1888 he was forced to resign.[1]
In 1863, he married Helen Birley. They later separated.[1]
Heemigrated to South Africa and died in Johannesburg in 1891, aged 56.[1]
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| Preceded by | Member of Parliament forAston Manor 1886–1891 | Succeeded by |
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