50 Years of Synchro…. 50 Years of ME!
Last week, I celebrated my 50th birthday—a milestone that naturally brings a moment of reflection. What makes this year even more special is that Synchro ERP, the company I’ve called home for much of my career, is also turning 50. It’s a rare and meaningful coincidence: both of us, shaped by five decades of change, challenge, and progress.
So what difference does fifty years make?... Well, if we want to look at where both Synchro and I started… how about a look at the first computer model that both our MD Christopher Collins & Simon Adlington used to begin their respective coding journeys… The Commodore PET!

Check that bad boy out…. Along with its incredible specification of a 1 mhz cpu, a whopping 4KB of Memory, and even a cassette deck…
Growing Up Alongside Synchro ERP
When I joined Synchro ERP, I was eager to make my mark. The company was already a leader in ERP solutions for the foundry industry, but it was still evolving—just like I was. Over the years, I’ve watched Synchro ERP adapt to new technologies, expand into new markets, and help foundries around the world become more efficient and competitive.
In many ways, my own journey mirrors the company’s. I started out learning the ropes, troubleshooting issues, and supporting our clients. As Synchro ERP grew, so did I—taking on new responsibilities, leading teams, and helping shape the way we support our customers.
Lessons from Five Decades
Fifty years teaches you a lot—about technology, about people, and about yourself. Here are a few lessons I’ve learned along the way:
Change is constant. The tech landscape never stands still. From DOS-based systems to cloud solutions and AI-driven analytics, Synchro ERP has always embraced innovation. Personally, I’ve learned to welcome change, not fear it.
People matter most. Whether it’s colleagues, clients, or partners, relationships are at the heart of everything we do. The best solutions come from listening, understanding, and working together.
Never stop learning. At 50, I’m still learning every day—about new technologies, new ways to solve problems, and new perspectives from the next generation of tech professionals.
Looking Ahead
As Synchro ERP celebrates its golden anniversary, I feel a deep sense of pride—not just in what we’ve achieved, but in the culture of curiosity, resilience, and teamwork that’s brought us this far. The future is bright, with exciting developments on the horizon and a new generation ready to take the lead.
Turning 50 isn’t just about looking back—it’s about looking forward. I’m grateful to be part of a company that values growth, innovation, and people. Here’s to the next 50 years—for Synchro ERP, and for all of us who are lucky enough to be part of its story.
Lee Mahon
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South African Metal Casting Conference March 2017
The 2017 South Africa Metal Casting Conference held from the 13th to 17th March 2017 incorporated the 7th International BRICS Foundry Forum, as well as the WFO General Assembly, and SYNCHRO ERP was present to meet old and make some new friends at this important event.