Posted to News on 25th Mar 2007, 16:34
New managers named by Midland-ACS
IMC has appointed new personnel to quality and purchasing management at its Midlands-based manufacturing facility, as part of a drive towards exceeding global standards and improving production efficiency.
A spokesman for IMC comments: "IMC manufactures niche valve products for the oil, gas and petrochemical industries and so enjoys a certain intellectual advantage, born out of years of field experience, research and development. But, to maintain IMC's technical advantage, the company must remain competitive and up-to-date in its production methods and guarantee quality throughout the organisation."
New Quality Assurance Manager, Mark Badge, now heads the Quality department. Mark has instigated a move in the department to become increasingly customer-focussed. As part of the department's proactive approach, a full review of business processes has also been undertaken to improve working processes, further increase performance and reduce waste.
Recent process audit visits from key customers have shown that the changes made are recognised; along with other developments such as increasing measurement capability through investment into new technology - including a new Faro gauge - and the introduction of comprehensive quality planning software tools.
Supply Chain Manager Ian Brookes has introduced an active and ongoing programme of lead time reduction. He has also overseen a doubling in capacity within the supply chain while, at the same time, consolidating and reducing the number of vendors used. This, combined with a more structured approach to production planning and working in conjunction with preferred suppliers, customers and internal departments, has resulted in a significant improvement in parts availability and greater cost controls.
