Obituary: Graham Hateley, Grayson Thermal Systems
Grayson Thermal Systems is deeply saddened to announce the passing of its Founder and Chairman, Graham Hateley. He passed away peacefully on Saturday 25 January 202 at the age of 89.
Graham began his career in the heat exchange industry in 1955, laying the groundwork for his future as a pioneer in thermal management. In 1978, Graham and his wife, Joyce Hateley, founded Grayson Thermal Systems as a radiator repair business, operating from a 1,000 square foot workshop in Birmingham.
Under Graham’s leadership during his 31 years as Managing Director, the company expanded beyond radiator repair. In 1994, the company became an OEM manufacturer of combustion coolers and HVAC systems for diesel-powered buses and coaches. In 2005, recognising the industry’s transition to alternative power sources, Graham spearheaded the development of heating and cooling systems for hybrid vehicles. In 2009, he stepped down as Managing Director to become Chairman, continuing to play an active role as a director.
A statement from Grayson Thermal Systems said: “Graham’s immense contributions to the bus and coach industry and his tireless dedication to advancing thermal management innovation have left a lasting legacy that will inspire generations to come. His vision transformed Grayson Thermal Systems from humble beginnings into a global player in the thermal management sector.
“Over the decades, Graham’s entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and commitment to innovation transformed the company into a global leader in thermal management” – Grayson Thermal Systems
It continued: “Over the decades, Graham’s entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and commitment to innovation transformed the company into a global leader in thermal management, employing over 360 people across four divisions and two continents. Today, Grayson is at the forefront of zero-emission applications, supplying advanced Battery Thermal Management Systems (BTMS) and heat pumps for battery electric (BEV) and fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEV).”
Beyond his business achievements, Graham was deeply committed to fostering a culture of respect and family values. Today, Grayson Thermal Systems remains a proud family-run business, led by his three sons—Stuart Hateley, Managing Director; Ian Hateley, Service Director; and James Hateley, Supply Chain Director. Together, they honour Graham’s legacy by upholding the principles he cherished.
In a joint statement, the company said: “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.”
Grayson says it remains steadfast in its commitment to championing Graham’s vision, upholding the values that have guided the company since its inception.