Production Manager Continuous Improvement

RICHARD MIX

*** ******* **, ****** *****, KY ****4 270-***-**** *********@*****.***

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Diligent and results-driven Production Manager with 15+ years of experience optimizing production workflows, driving operational efficiency, and ensuring safety compliance. Skilled in leading cross-functional teams, implementing Lean Manufacturing practices, and achieving cost reductions through process improvements. Expertise in managing large-scale projects and utilizing data-driven strategies to boost productivity and on-time delivery.

WORK HISTORY

Continuous Improvement Manager

Arrowhead Engineering Products– Portland, TN

July 2024 to Present

• Spearheaded five capital projects totaling over $2.3M, including a $1.3M facility expansion and $700K tire facility, by managing planning through execution to improve capacity and efficiency.

• Led a site-wide cultural shift toward Continuous Improvement by introducing SQDIP boards for daily KPI tracking, resulting in improved accountability and performance across key metrics.

• Trained cross-functional teams in Lean practices by conducting hands-on exercises and delivering continuous improvement and performance.

• Oversaw safety and efficiency upgrades—including turnstiles, security fencing, and dock additions—by managing implementation and coordination efforts, resulting in enhanced site security and streamlined logistics. Key Accomplishments:

• Boosted small parcel OTD from 68% to 98%; NDAs achieved 100%

• Eliminated 28,000+ order backlog; achieved 98% on-time delivery for LTL & exports Production Manager

Arrowhead Engineering Products– Portland, TN

January 2024 to July 2024

• Led 11 salaried supervisors and 285+ associates across production and shipping by managing performance and ensuring safety and compliance, increasing on-time deliveries by 44% in 6 months.

• Implemented a visual warehouse system with color-coded zones by redesigning layout and signage, resulting in improved organization and faster material retrieval.

• Launched monthly Town Halls, weekly luncheons, and an Activity Committee by coordinating cross-functional engagement initiatives, leading to stronger team morale and communication.

• Established an in-house Maintenance Department and introduced weekly Toolbox Talks by reallocating resources and standardizing safety communication, reducing downtime and increasing workplace safety. Key Accomplishments:

• Improved OTD for small parcels (68% to 98%) and NDAs (100%)

• Reduced export backlog, achieving 98% on-time delivery Production Manager

ABC Technologies– Gallatin, TN

August 2022 to January 2024

• Oversaw 6 supervisors and 340 associates across production and shipping by providing leadership, training, and performance management, resulting in consistent output and operational alignment.

• Led Campus Safety and 5S Teams by driving cross-functional initiatives, which improved product quality and reduced operational costs.

• Enforced ISO/IATF compliance standards across departments by conducting audits and ensuring procedural adherence, maintaining certification and supporting continuous improvement Key Accomplishments:

• Implemented new 24-hour schedule, boosting attainment by 42% in 180 days

• Reduced TRIR from 11.97 (2022) to 2.94 (2023) by reshaping safety culture Production Manager

CHEP Pallet Services – Bowling Green, KY

April 2020 to August 2022

• Managed three shifts covering pallet repair, sorting, painting, and shipping by coordinating daily operations and staffing, ensuring consistent productivity and throughput.

• Designed a new facility layout for 100% pedestrian segregation from PIT traffic by analyzing traffic flow and safety risks, resulting in a safer work environment and reduced incidents. Key Accomplishments:

• Cut work week from 6 to 5 days through improved scheduling

• Built training campus and reduced soft tissue injuries by 45% Production Manager

AHK (American HOWA of Kentucky) – Bowling Green, KY September 2017 to April 2020

• Directed 9 salaried supervisors and over 280 hourly associates by providing strategic leadership and operational oversight, resulting in improved team performance and production consistency.

• Oversaw production budgeting and ISO compliance by aligning financial planning with quality standards, ensuring cost control and regulatory adherence.

• Developed SPH (Standard Per Hour) and short interval control systems by designing custom performance tracking tools, enabling real-time visibility and faster issue resolution. Key Accomplishments:

• Created Production DOJO for skills development

• Implemented company-wide incident and associate tracking databases Production Manager

T. Marzetti Co – Horse Cave, KY

June 2014 to September 2017

• Managed 5 supervisors and 150+ associates by directing daily operations and performance standards, resulting in consistent output and team alignment.

• Aligned cross-functional teams to improve production flow by facilitating collaboration and removing process bottlenecks, increasing overall efficiency.

• Drove major process improvements and waste reduction initiatives by analyzing workflows and implementing lean strategies, leading to cost savings and enhanced productivity. Key Accomplishments:

• Saved $500K in waste through improvement team initiatives

• Served on plant-wide recycling and HAACP teams

Team Manager

Henkel Corporation – Bowling Green, KY

June 2011 to June 2014

• Managed 60+ associates in Liquids Packaging by overseeing daily operations and staffing, resulting in consistent production output and adherence to quality standards.

• Led 5S, safety, wastewater, and process improvement teams by coordinating initiatives and driving engagement, leading to improved compliance, cleanliness, and operational efficiency.

• Designed a JIT scheduling forecast tool and new manager training program by identifying operational gaps and creating tailored solutions, enhancing planning accuracy and leadership development. Key Accomplishments:

• Increased productivity by 18% on two shifts

• Completed "Foundation of Leading" Program Awarded "Piggy Bank" award for implementing "Manager's Checkbook" Program

Corporate Trainer

Chick-fil-A – Atlanta, GA/Bowling Green, KY

September 2003 June 2011

SKILLS

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Management Mid Continent University - Mayfield, KY

Dean's List

Team Leadership and Development

Process Optimization

Project Management

Staff Retention

Quality Control

ISO 14001

OSHA 10 Hour Training

Associate Recruitment

Budgeting

Performance Tracking

Safety Compliance Management

Operation Management

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