Continuous Improvement Operations Manager

Venkatesh Duraisamy

Ontario, Canada 289-***-**** *********@*****.***

Professional Summary

Production and Operations Manager with over 10 plus years of experience in manufacturing, industrial plant operations, and team leadership. Proven track record in overseeing production processes, coordinating plant expansions, and implementing continuous improvement initiatives to enhance quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. Experienced in working with cross-functional teams, including Engineering, Sales, and Suppliers, to meet operational targets while ensuring compliance with ISO9001/14001 standards and safety regulations. Skilled in managing industrial machinery operations, optimizing workflows, and leading high-performance teams to achieve operational excellence.

Core Competencies

• Production Management & Scheduling

• Plant Expansion & Equipment Upgrades

• Continuous Improvement & Lean Manufacturing

• ISO9001 & ISO14001 Compliance

• Process Optimization & Cost Control

• Cross-functional Collaboration (Engineering, Sales, Suppliers)

• Industrial Machinery & Automotive Manufacturing Experience

• Safety Leadership & Compliance Programs

• Team Leadership, Coaching & Development

• KPI Tracking & Performance Reporting

Professional Experience

Maintenance Area Manager– Georgia Pacific Canada Mar 2023 – May 2025

• Managed plant production operations and maintenance activities to ensure timely delivery, cost efficiency, and quality compliance.

• Supervised a team of 14 tradespeople and 2 leads, fostering a culture of safety, collaboration, and continuous improvement.

• Oversaw equipment upgrades, plant layout optimization, and process improvements to support increased production capacity.

• Implemented preventive maintenance and reliability programs, reducing downtime and improving equipment efficiency.

• Ensured compliance with ISO standards, health and safety regulations, and environmental requirements.

Lead Maintenance Planner & Scheduler – Team Groups for General Motors Canada Apr 2021 – Mar 2023

• Coordinated multi-site production and maintenance schedules to align with operational targets.

• Supported plant modifications and equipment installation projects to improve production efficiency.

• Partnered with engineering, suppliers, and contractors to source materials and plan work execution.

• Led process standardization initiatives to improve scheduling accuracy and reduce production bottlenecks.

• Tracked KPIs and implemented corrective actions to meet quality and delivery targets.

Maintenance & Production Lead – Qusac Decaf Food/Pharma Feb 2018 – Apr 2021

• Directed daily production activities in a GMP-compliant manufacturing environment.

• Led plant process improvements to increase output and reduce material waste.

• Managed vendor relationships, procurement, and inventory to support uninterrupted production.

• Conducted training for operators and maintenance personnel on safety, quality, and operational standards.

• Coordinated with quality assurance to maintain compliance with ISO and regulatory requirements.

Shift Supervisor – AV Terrace Bay Inc. 2016 – 2018

• Supervised shift production operations, ensuring adherence to production schedules and quality standards.

• Collaborated with maintenance teams to resolve equipment issues and minimize downtime.

• Managed workforce assignments, monitored performance, and enforced safety protocols.

• Supported continuous improvement initiatives to increase production efficiency.

Education & Certifications

• Post-Graduate Diploma in Business Management – Fanshawe College, ON

• Bachelor of Technology in Chemical Engineering – SRM University, India

• Six Sigma Green Belt Advanced Maximo Applications – GM University

• Competent Supervisor (Ontario MOL) ISO 9001/14001

• WHMIS, OHAS, EHS Certified Forklift, Crane, Hoist Certified

Technical Skills

• Tools: SAP PM, Maximo, MP2, MOE, Kronos, Smartsheet, Excel, Power BI

• Standards: ISO9001, ISO14001, GMP, PSM, HAZOP

• Methods: Lean Manufacturing, CI, RCA, PM Planning, Safety Management Systems

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