A results-focused and seasoned production manager with 20+ years of experience and expertise in planning, setting-up, implementing, and managing a start-up plastics production department that grew from inception to producing $1M annually in sales revenues. Selected equipment, including plastic parts, dye blocks and extruders. Developed process improvements and consulted with engineers to bridge gaps and problem solve, maximizing the manufacturing processes and production. Seeking a Production Manager position to use skills and leadership abilities to develop and implement strategies to enhance operations and productivity, propelling profits.
Overview
33
33
years of professional experience
Work History
Maintenance Technician
Soroc Products
Burton, MI
10.2023 - 06.2026
Conducted routine inspections to identify maintenance issues and ensure operational efficiency
Performed preventive maintenance on equipment to extend lifespan and reduce downtime
Troubleshot mechanical failures and implemented effective solutions to restore functionality
Collaborated with team members to streamline workflows and enhance maintenance processes
Trained new technicians on safety protocols, equipment handling, and repair techniques.
Maintained accurate records of repairs, inspections, and inventory for compliance purposes.
Extrusion Operator
ITW Zippak
Doraville,GA
07.2020 - 09.2023
Initially joined the company in an entry level position, but as skills were honed, transitioned, and worked in multiple departments, learning manufacturing and operations processes.
Select Accomplishments:
Started as Machine Operator running the top zipper in the Slitting Department to fuse the plastic and zipper together and selected as lead operator
Transitioned to the Machine Shop, welding and running industrial saws to assemble package machinery
Promoted to Operator in the Extrusion Department learning application technology, and packaging systems
Worked in the String Zipper Department, achieving one of the lowest scrape rates in the company
Selected to train at a sister company in New York about operations of Flange Zippers so the Atlanta plant could model operations and make Flange Zippers
PM on extruder including downstream equipment.
PM on all die blocks.
Production Manager Zipper Operations
Tara Plastics Company/Sigma Company
Forest Park, GA
01.2012 - 07.2020
Recruited to help launch a start-up company, Tara Plastics, specializing in production of string zipper and flange zipper. Designed the downstream equipment, helped produce and design all dye plates for the dye block. Worked with engineers on CAD drawings. Next, ensured the equipment was tested and in good working order to begin production. The company was recently acquired by Sigma Company.
Select Accomplishments:
Redesigned water-cooling baths, pull rollers, and re-worked the winders several times to ensure a quality product resulting in maximum productivity
Responsible for ordering all parts and supplies for production to ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness
As the first employee, responsible for recruiting, interviewing, and training employees, and explaining job expectations and job responsibilities to maximize production
Achieved the lowest scrape rate in the company with less than 1% monthly, producing 30 Million feet of zipper per month or 360 Million feet annually
Trained all employees on forklifts and electric pallet jacks to ensure compliance and safety
Audited annually on SQF (Safe Quality Food) and consistently receive a high score
Consult with sales and serve as the SME (Subject Matter Expert) to discuss processes, quality, and production operations to win new business and expand National Accounts, including Bison Bag, Mercury Plastics, and Advanced Poly to name only a few
Frequently requested to talk with major clients to problem solve over the telephone on any processing issues and provide advice on running the zipper seal
If production line stops and the staff is unable to repair, determine and identify the root cause and get the equipment repaired and back on schedule
Interface with Manufacturing, Engineering, and Management regarding quality monitoring, identifying corrective action process, quality improvement actions, and containment actions
Zipper Tape Operator
Illinois Tool Works Zip Pak
Atlanta, GA
01.1997 - 01.2012
Initially joined the company in an entry level position, but as skills were honed, transitioned, and worked in multiple departments, learning manufacturing and operations processes.
Select Accomplishments:
Started as Machine Operator running the top zipper in the Slitting Department to fuse the plastic and zipper together and selected as lead operator
Transitioned to the Machine Shop, welding and running industrial saws to assemble package machinery
Promoted to Operator in the Extrusion Department learning application technology, and packaging systems
Worked in the String Zipper Department, achieving one of the lowest scrape rates in the company
Selected to train at a sister company in New York about operations of Flange Zippers so the Atlanta plant could model operations and make Flange Zippers
Operator/Mold Setter/Material Handler/Supervisor
Advanced Auto Trends
Oxford, MI
01.1993 - 01.1996
First position after High school and hired as a machine operator that produces plastic molded parts for Ford and Chrysler.
Select Accomplishments:
Based on performance, promoted to a mold setter to set up the lines for new products
Promoted to Supervisor to manage both operations and a staff of 15 operators ensuring all machines produced the highest quality products