How did you get into the industry?
I spent 15 years in the fabrication, welding and sheet metal industry before deciding to pursue a new professional challenge in 2015. I was given the opportunity to join WEP as a Production Manager. Since then, I have continued to develop within the company, taking on new responsibilities and progressing in my role as the business has grown.
What does your day-to-day job involve?
As Operations Manager at WEP, I am responsible for overseeing all shop floor activities, including maintenance, technical operations, quality, customer relations and continuous improvement initiatives across all areas.
Due to the wide scope of the role, no two days are the same. One day I could be closely involved in manufacturing operations, while the next I could be leading continuous improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing performance across the business.
What are the biggest changes you have seen in the industry and company since you started?
Having been with the company for over 10 years, I have seen significant changes, with one of the most important being the transformation of the company culture. It has been particularly rewarding to be part of that journey.
When I joined in 2015, the company was heavily focused on the automotive sector, with around 90% of our work linked to that industry. Over the years, we have consciously diversified our portfolio to reduce this dependency by exploring and developing opportunities in new sectors such as rail, wind and energy.
There has also been substantial investment in the business during this time. Since I joined, we have introduced three major new machines, including two fully robotic dip-spin machines and a cutting-edge, market-leading laser cleaning machine. These investments have strengthened our capabilities and supported the company’s continued growth and development.
What are some of your career highlights and milestones so far?
Last year, I celebrated 10 years with WEP, which was a significant personal milestone. During my time with the company, I have also had the opportunity to develop my skills through a number of professional training programmes, including IOSH Managing Safely.
One of my biggest achievements has been completing an ILM Level 5 Management course, which I was awarded with a distinction. The course ran over two years and was both challenging and rewarding. It significantly broadened my perspective and has played an important role in helping me grow and develop into a more effective manager.
What is your favourite thing about working for Anochrome?
Without a doubt, the people at WEP and across the wider Anochrome Group are the best part of working here. The team within the organisation is exceptional and the level of support, collaboration and commitment from top to bottom is something you could not ask for better.
If you could, what piece of advice would you give your younger self?
Take every opportunity that comes your way. Whether you realise it at the time or not, each opportunity helps shape who you become. The more experiences and choices you embrace, the broader the possibilities for your personal and professional development.