Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
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David Hartzog

Opelika

Summary

A hands-on, results-driven leader with deep experience in quality control and operations at KIA Georgia. Known for managing large teams, ensuring ISO compliance, and building strong cross-functional relationships to drive meaningful improvements. Skilled at adapting to fast-changing production demands while keeping quality and efficiency front and center. Whether mentoring team members, resolving challenges on the floor, or collaborating with suppliers, I focus on creating a high-performance environment where people and processes thrive. Proficient in tools like Excel and SAP, with a passion for continuous improvement and delivering consistent results.

Overview

28
28
years of professional experience

Work History

Assistant Manager of Quality Control

KIA Georgia
01.2020 - 07.2025
  • Oversaw daily plant operations to ensure adherence to performance, quality, and production targets across all departments.
  • Maintained a clean, safe, and well-organized facility to support efficiency, compliance, and optimal working conditions.
  • Built strong, collaborative relationships with cross-functional teams, fostering a positive and high-performance culture throughout the plant. Promoted teamwork and cooperation to enhance productivity and meet shifting operational demands.
  • Improved customer satisfaction by addressing quality issues and resolving concerns quickly and effectively.
  • Maintained a hands-on approach to operations, staying informed of changing production needs and quality standards.
  • Mentored and guided junior staff, supporting their professional development through training, coaching, and role-specific support.
  • Conducted regular performance evaluations, delivering actionable feedback to drive continuous improvement.
  • Consistently enforced company policies and procedures, managing disciplinary actions with fairness, transparency, and professionalism.
  • Recognized and rewarded employee achievements to boost morale and encourage a culture of excellence.
  • Ensured full compliance with all safety regulations and industry standards by performing regular audits, daily safety walks, and ISO compliance checks.
  • Monitored First Time Through Quality (FTTQ) metrics and provided real-time feedback on defects to drive immediate corrective actions.
  • Led a team of 70 employees across online and offline quality operations, attending daily quality assurance and production meetings to track progress, address issues, and align priorities. Reviewed and approved yard sorts and sweeps to ensure quality control standards were met.
  • Coordinated with departments and suppliers to identify and resolve quality concerns.
  • Managed manpower and scheduled overtime as needed to meet production goals.
  • Held responsibility for end-of-week plant shutdown procedures, ensuring all systems, equipment, and safety protocols were properly secured.

Group Leader of Quality Control

KIA Georgia
01.2015 - 01.2020
  • Led by example, demonstrating commitment to the company''s mission and consistently delivering high-quality work.
  • Monitored group performance on a regular basis, analyzing data and trends to identify areas for improvement.
  • Delegated tasks strategically and monitored progress for timely completion.
  • Monitored team performance to identify productivity improvement opportunities.
  • Trained new team members by relaying information on company procedures and safety requirements.

Group Leader of Repair

KIA Georgia
08.2008 - 01.2015
  • Maintained clean and well-organized production areas to avoid violations or unnecessary work delays due to hazards or inefficient layouts.
  • Mentored team members to enhance their skillsets, resulting in higher-quality work and improved job satisfaction.
  • Supported staff with developing professional skills and abilities, uplifting team performance.
  • Established clear goals and expectations for the team, promoting accountability and fostering a high-performance culture.
  • Resolved conflict quickly to limit operational disruption and maintain positive, productive working environments.

Chassis Line Team Member & Repair Team Leader

MBUSI
07.1997 - 08.2008
  • Installed key vehicle components on the chassis line, including brake lines, exhaust systems, torsion bars, engines, transmissions, transfer cases, radiators, and fuel tanks.
  • Transitioned to vehicle repair operations, performing comprehensive repairs across paint, electrical, mechanical, and shower systems.
  • Served as a member of the JD Power quality team, contributing to quality assurance standards and customer satisfaction benchmarks.
  • Provided support in the repair retro tents, executing specialized vehicle modifications and corrections as required.
  • Worked on the option/cladding line and provided cross-functional support by filling in across various production lines as needed.
  • Promoted to Team Leader in the repair area; managed repair workflows, tracked units through the repair process, and ensured accurate documentation and part ordering.
  • Acted as a hands-on leader by stepping in to assist with repairs in all areas during high-demand periods, maintaining production flow and quality standards.

Education

Northview Highschool
Dothan, AL

Skills

  • Lead and manage large teams to execute quality control checks, ensuring compliance with internal standards and customer expectations
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with multiple departments and external suppliers to identify root causes and implement quality improvements
  • Ensure full compliance with ISO standards by conducting regular audits and verifying that all team members utilize appropriate PPE
  • Oversee adherence to work instructions, ensuring documentation is current, accurate, and aligned with operational best practices
  • Monitor overtime and adjust team schedules dynamically to meet changing production demands and maintain operational efficiency
  • Develop and coordinate training programs for new model launches, including travel to other sites as needed to support smooth rollouts with minimal defects
  • Proficient in daily use of Excel, PowerPoint, SAP, and various other systems for tracking performance metrics, presenting data, and managing workflow processes

Timeline

Assistant Manager of Quality Control

KIA Georgia
01.2020 - 07.2025

Group Leader of Quality Control

KIA Georgia
01.2015 - 01.2020

Group Leader of Repair

KIA Georgia
08.2008 - 01.2015

Chassis Line Team Member & Repair Team Leader

MBUSI
07.1997 - 08.2008

Northview Highschool