William Chatwind
Technical Sales Specialist Manufacturing
Benoni
Work Preference
Summary
Results-driven Production Manager specializing in CNC machine optimization and lean manufacturing. Proven track record in cost reduction strategies and workflow improvement, enhancing productivity and quality across production lines.
Overview
38
38
years of professional experience
Work History
Production/Engineering Manager
AFW Technologies
03.2010 - Current
- Technical Sales agent for Sandvik Coromant, sales of other Metal working brands - Widia, Kennametal, Iscar, RS Carbide, Eclipse, CNC MAchines-New and second hand, CMM measuring Machines, Quakerhouten and consumables.
- Advise on correct CNC Machine purchases for machining application type and process.
- Liaise with decision makers on Optimized production workflows by implementing lean manufacturing and product improvement, reducing waste and improving efficiency with focus on Productivity, lean cycle times and quality management. Present presentation with solutions and implement.
- Led cross-functional teams to enhance product quality, resulting in decreased defect rates and increased customer satisfaction.
- Utilized advanced manufacturing technologies to improve process reliability and reduce downtime across production lines.
- Conducted regular visits and training, maintaining compliance and promoting a culture of awareness regarding Coolant in Machines, Manufacturing Technologies,quality control, housekeeping and machining principles for customers.
- Analyzed production data to identify trends and areas for improvement, driving informed decision-making and operational enhancements by suggesting solutions to customers.
- Improved production efficiency by implementing lean manufacturing principles and optimizing workflow processes.
- Oversaw the selection and installation of new production equipment, ensuring seamless integration into existing workflows.
- Coordinated with suppliers to secure high-quality materials at competitive prices, supporting both financial goals and production schedules.
- Conducted root cause analysis for production issues, identifying areas for improvement and implementing corrective actions swiftly.
- Streamlined inventory management systems to minimize waste while maintaining adequate stock levels for uninterrupted production flow.
- Implemented preventive maintenance programs, reducing equipment downtime and increasing overall productivity.
- Developed and executed strategic plans to achieve significant cost reductions, streamlining operations and maximizing profitability.
- Enhanced product quality with rigorous testing protocols and data-driven improvements in machining/production techniques.
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of industry trends, incorporating innovative technologies to enhance competitiveness in the market.
- Investigated and proposed corrective actions for quality issues.
- Determined root causes of failures and recommended changes in designs, tolerances or processing methods.
- Maximized productivity by developing and implementing innovative production processes for new and existing products.
- Analyzed product and process and provided actionable solutions for changes to processes, products or quality standards.
- Developed and implemented engineering solutions to streamline operations, achieving significant time savings in production cycles.
- Mentored junior engineers and production staff, fostering skill development and enhancing team performance.
Division Manager
Retecon
02.2008 - 02.2010
- Led CMM division for importation of machines, costing and quotations to customers.
- Assisting with day-to-day sales, liaise with customers and support for sales team.
- Compile reports and budgets and introduce new products.
- Perform demonstrations at customers and implement equipment and solutions, provide training.
Productivity Improvement Engineer
Sandvik Coromant
01.2003 - 01.2008
- Lead productivity team in processes, evaluation and cost calculations in processes.
- Productivity Improvements, optimize and test machining processes and machining cycles.
- Perform process evaluations, time studies and compile reports and presentations and present to decision makers and management.
- Assist with programming and machining Cycles and selection of tools and processes.
- Reduce cycle time, increase machine capacity, improve QC and product improvement.
- Assist with problem solving and machine selections.
- Ultimately improve Machine shop and components profitability.
- Introduce Industry standards and innovations.
Sales Manager CNC Machines Devision
Toolquip & Allied
01.2001 - 12.2002
- Led sales strategy for CNC machines, visited overseas suppliers in China and Taiwan sourcing CNC machines, driving market share growth and enhancing customer engagement, facilitated importations.
- Drove training programs for sales staff, elevating product knowledge and improving customer interactions.
- Streamlined sales processes using CRM systems, increasing efficiency in lead management and follow-up.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to tailor CNC solutions, ensuring alignment with client specifications.
Machinist/ CNC Programmer
Atlas Aircraft/Denel Aviation
01.1988 - 12.1998
- Qualified as a Fitter and Turner (Red Seal).
- Programmed and operated 5 Axis CNC machines to produce precise Aircraft components( Rooivalk, G6 Cannon) enhancing production efficiency.
- Conducted regular maintenance on CNC equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimize downtime.
- Collaborated with engineering teams to interpret drawings and translate designs into operational plans, ensuring alignment with production requirements.
- Conducted regular maintenance on CNC equipment, ensuring optimal performance and reducing downtime.
Education
Fitter And Turner - Red Seal - Fitter And Turner - Artisan
Denel Aviation
Johannesburg 04.2001 -
Skills
Operations management
Lean manufacturing
CNC machine optimization
Workflow optimization
Productivity improvement
Cost reduction
Reliability improvement
Machining principles
Technical project management
Equipment integration
Solution implementation
Supplier negotiation
Team leadership
Languages
English
Advanced (C1)
Afrikaans
Advanced (C1)
Work Availability
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Software
Excell
Powerpoint
Accomplishments
- Resolved product issue through consumer testing.
- Fuel saver devise is difficult to install and result in removing the fuel tank via a third party installer.
- I designed a Filtration devise to allow for the devise instaled inline on the fuel system which results in a more efficient and easy for installation application.
Affiliations
- Supertech
Interests
Hunting
Golf
Quote
Judge a man by his questions rather than his answers.
Voltaire
Timeline
Production/Engineering Manager
AFW Technologies
03.2010 - Current
Division Manager
Retecon
02.2008 - 02.2010
Productivity Improvement Engineer
Sandvik Coromant
01.2003 - 01.2008
Fitter And Turner - Red Seal - Fitter And Turner - Artisan
Denel Aviation
04.2001 -
Sales Manager CNC Machines Devision
Toolquip & Allied
01.2001 - 12.2002
Machinist/ CNC Programmer
Atlas Aircraft/Denel Aviation
01.1988 - 12.1998