Manager Continuous Improvement

David Finney

Plymouth, IN *****

www.linkedin.com/in/davefinneyoperationsleader

************@*****.*** 574-***-****

Operations Distribution Leader

Trusted business leader providing leadership and guidance in multi-state distribution channels across as many as 12 production plants and more than 400 drivers, supporting multimillion-dollar revenue. Diligent in spearheading critical change initiatives and quality improvement projects, driving operational excellence and securing annual cost savings. Engaging communicator, working collaboratively within leadership teams, resolving complex issues, and ensuring on-time deliveries. Natural leader in mentoring and managing cross-functional teams, meeting demanding business goals in matrix-driven environments.

Project Management Cost Reduction Team Leadership Operational Excellence

Distribution Management Multi-Site Operations Continuous Improvement

Production Management Inventory Optimization Change Management

Union Management Compliance

Professional Experience

PRAXAIR DISTRIBUTION INC., South Bend, IN 1995 – 2016

Associate Director, Distribution 2016

Directed all distribution activities and introduced improvements across eastern states, including fleet reliability, supply chain optimization, and driver compliance. Supported $500M in sales revenue. Provided leadership through direct chain of command and within matrix organization.

•Implemented eLog compliance system across region of more than 400 drivers, utilizing PeopleNet on-board computers through coordination of in-person and web-based training for local managers.

•Achieved compliance with DOT regulations more than 12 months in advance of statutory deadline, pinpointing inefficiencies and implementing cost-effective solutions.

Region Operations Manager (Promotion) 2009 – 2016

Led operations team for eastern US region with as many as 12 production plants and more than 200 drivers. Directed distribution, production, safety, compliance, quality, productivity, and field service activities supporting $300M in sales.

•Drove cost reduction efforts, including $3.5M in 2009, $4.2M in 2010, $3.8M in 2011, $6.9M in 2012, $7.0M in 2013, and $8.5M in 2014, introducing Six Sigma and Lean methods and streamlining processes.

•Built cohesive regional operations team from 3 former divisions and multiple acquisitions, mentoring individuals, promoting transparency and collaboration, and driving performance.

•Directed distribution activities, working closely with key stakeholders across internal Praxair fleet, LTL, small package (UPS / FedEx).

•Managed 6 plant consolidations to optimize region production capabilities, improving service levels and reducing overall operating costs.

•Negotiated multiple successful union contracts at 7 separate plants, resulting in more flexible work rules and favorable financial outcomes by utilizing fair, but firm, negotiating tactics.

Division Operations Manager (Promotion) 2007 – 2008

Mentored and led operations team for Eastern Great Lakes Division, including 5 production plants and 75 drivers. Supported $75M in sales.

•Directed merger of 2 production plants and distribution activities in Detroit metro area, managing competing demands and deadlines and meeting business requirements.

•Delivered savings in excess of $800K 1st year of division launch by implementing productivity projects and streamlining processes.

David Finney ************@*****.*** Page Two

PRAXAIR DISTRIBUTION INC. (Continued)

Logistics and Quality Manager (Acquisition) 2007

Served as subject matter expert (SME) to partner with operations, information technology, safety, distribution, and compliance streams.

•Selected as team lead for several “Synergy” projects, cultivating collaboration across multi-functional teams, promoting transparency, and driving operational excellence.

MITTLER SUPPLY INC., South Bend, IN (Acquired by Praxair 4/1/2007) 1995 – 2007

Logistics and Quality Manager (Promotion) 2006 – 2007

Named to Mittler Supply’s senior management team to define delivery guidelines for company-wide distribution efficiency encompassing 18 branches and more than 50 drivers.

•Spearheaded key change initiatives, reducing overall delivery expenses 8%.

Manager, Quality and Distribution (Promotion) 2003 – 2006

Managed 50K ft2 production and distribution center, including 24 Teamster drivers and production operators. Maintained full P&L responsibility for Mittler bulk supply company, Cryogenic Contracts, Inc. Produced customer quotes, built supplier relations, performed cost analysis, and coordinated tanker maintenance.

•Supervised traffic manager, providing direction and setting goals for day-to-day plant operation.

•Managed dedicated medical gas production facility, introducing cost-cutting measures and ensuring operational results were met.

•Facilitated multiple global / cross-functional quality teams, troubleshooting and resolving complex problems and improving key processes.

Quality and Logistics Manager (Promotion)

Quality Systems Manager

Additional Relevant Experience

HEATERS ENGINEERING, INC., North Webster, IN

Assistant Project Engineer (Promotion)

Quality Manager

Education

Master of Industrial Distribution (MID), Industrial Distribution, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX

Bachelor of Science (BS), Business Administration, Manchester College, North Manchester, IN

Professional Development

Certificate in Executive Management, Notre Dame University

Certificate in Supervisory Development, Notre Dame University

Leadership Training for Managers, Dale Carnegie

Community Service

Youth Group Adult Leader, Plymouth Church of the Brethren, 2005 – 2007 / 2014 – 2015

Deacon, Plymouth Church of the Brethren, 2009 – 2014

Church Board Chair, Plymouth Church of the Brethren, 2007 – 2009

Chair of Ministry Committee and Board Member, Plymouth Church of the Brethren, 2003 – 2006

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