Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Interests
Timeline
Generic

Gary Keson II

Bellevue

Summary

Dynamic Senior Engineering Manager with a proven track record at DENSO Manufacturing Michigan, excelling in budget management and team building. Spearheaded process innovations that enhanced operational efficiency, achieving significant cost reductions. Committed to training and mentoring teams, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement in high-stakes environments. Strong skillset in Facility and Equipment maintenance.

Overview

24
24
years of professional experience

Work History

Senior Engineering Manager

DENSO Manufacturing Of Michigan
04.2022 - Current
  • Led cross-functional teams to optimize engineering processes and drive product innovation.
  • Developed strategic plans to enhance operational efficiency and reduce production costs.
  • Implemented advanced manufacturing technologies, resulting in improved quality control and reduced cycle times.
  • Lead Equipment & Facility Maintenance teams
  • Establish and Manage annual Capital, General Expense, and Labor budgets for multiple departments
  • Established performance metrics for monitoring team progress towards key objectives, driving accountability and transparency among team members.
  • Develop detailed specifications for equipment ensuring they meet needs and operational standards

Senior Operations Managers

DENSO Manufacturing Michigan
04.2019 - 03.2022
  • Oversaw daily operations, ensuring efficiency and adherence to safety protocols.
  • Mentored team members, fostering professional development and enhancing productivity.
  • Implemented process improvements that streamlined workflows and reduced operational bottlenecks.
  • Analyzed performance metrics to identify areas for improvement and drive strategic initiatives.
  • Oversaw workforce management planning, volume predictions and capacity planning.
  • Built strong relationships with key stakeholders through consistent engagement, collaboration, and transparent communication practices.
  • Managed employee-related issues encompassing labor, turnover and diversity.
  • Effectively managed departmental budgets, identifying opportunities for cost reduction and resource optimization.

Maintenance Manager

DENSO Manufacturing Michigan
04.2016 - 03.2019
  • Led maintenance operations, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and industry standards.
  • Developed and implemented preventive maintenance schedules to enhance equipment reliability.
  • Trained and mentored staff on best practices for machinery operation and maintenance procedures.
  • Collaborated with engineering teams to identify opportunities for process improvements in facility operations.
  • Managed inventory of spare parts, optimizing procurement processes to minimize downtime.
  • Oversaw vendor relationships, negotiating contracts to ensure quality service at competitive rates.
  • Supervised employee performance, preventive maintenance, and safety.
  • Led the successful completion of major facility upgrades projects while adhering to budget constraints and timelines.
  • Scheduled regular inspections of equipment and facilities to manage wear and tear.
  • Negotiated contracts with vendors for cost-effective procurement of parts and services, maintaining strong working relationships.

Manufacturing Manager

DENSO Manufacturing Michigan
04.2012 - 03.2016
  • Oversaw production schedules to optimize workflow and meet delivery deadlines.
  • Implemented lean manufacturing principles to reduce waste and improve efficiency.
  • Trained and mentored team members on safety protocols and operational procedures.
  • Analyzed production data to identify bottlenecks and recommend process improvements.
  • Supervised production team, keeping production schedules on track to meet tight deadlines.
  • Conducted root cause analysis investigations to identify areas for improvement in manufacturing processes, leading to increased efficiency and fewer defects.
  • Managed budget planning and forecasting activities for the manufacturing department, ensuring alignment with corporate financial goals while maintaining operational excellence.
  • Managed a team of production staff, fostering a positive work environment and encouraging professional growth.

Manufacturing Team Lead

DENSO Manufacturing Michigan
04.2001 - 03.2012
  • Supervised daily manufacturing operations to ensure efficiency and adherence to safety protocols.
  • Led team meetings to communicate production goals and address operational challenges.
  • Trained new employees on equipment usage and best practices for quality assurance.
  • Implemented process improvements that reduced downtime and enhanced productivity.
  • Conducted regular inspections to maintain compliance with industry regulations and standards.
  • Analyzed production metrics to identify trends, driving strategic adjustments in operations.

Education

General Studies

Bellevue High School
Bellevue, MI
05-1997

No Degree - Automotive Repair

Calhoun Area Carrer Center
Battle Creek, NE
05-1997

Skills

  • Decision-making skills
  • Training and mentoring
  • Team building
  • Customer focus
  • Budget Managment

Accomplishments

  • Managed up to 8 projects at a time.
  • Directed Plant Expansion project with $2.2M budget.
  • Developed Equipment Preventative Maintenance Program resulting in $120K annual cost savings.
  • Annually Manage Capital Investment budget averaging $2.5-$3M supporting Production Operations & Facility repair / improvements

Interests

  • Outdoor Recreation
  • Martial Arts
  • Gym Workouts
  • Auto Repair/Restoration
  • Youth Development Programs

Timeline

Senior Engineering Manager

DENSO Manufacturing Of Michigan
04.2022 - Current

Senior Operations Managers

DENSO Manufacturing Michigan
04.2019 - 03.2022

Maintenance Manager

DENSO Manufacturing Michigan
04.2016 - 03.2019

Manufacturing Manager

DENSO Manufacturing Michigan
04.2012 - 03.2016

Manufacturing Team Lead

DENSO Manufacturing Michigan
04.2001 - 03.2012

General Studies

Bellevue High School

No Degree - Automotive Repair

Calhoun Area Carrer Center
Gary Keson II