Matthew Craig
Ocoee,TN
Summary
Adept at enhancing team productivity and fostering cross-functional collaboration, I spearheaded initiatives at DENSO Manufacturing Tennessee that significantly improved efficiency and customer satisfaction. Leveraging skills in Lean Manufacturing and effective communication, I successfully implemented strategic planning and problem-solving techniques, achieving notable achievements in productivity and quality standards.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
Manufacturing Manager
SK Food Group
Cleveland, ND
12.2025 - 09.2026
- Led cross-functional teams to implement process improvements, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing waste.
- Oversaw production schedules, ensuring on-time delivery of high-quality food products.
- Mentored and trained staff in manufacturing best practices, driving skill development and team cohesion.
- Developed and enforced safety protocols, fostering a culture of compliance and risk management within the facility.
- Analyzed production data to identify trends, informing strategic decisions for capacity planning and resource allocation.
- Spearheaded cost-reduction projects that optimized resource utilization without compromising quality or safety standards.
- 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.
- Coordinated efforts between engineering, design, procurement, and quality assurance departments to streamline product development cycles and improve overall productivity.
- Developed and implemented training programs for new hires, resulting in reduced time-to-productivity for all employees.
- Reviewed processing schedules and production orders concerning inventory requirements, staffing requirements, work procedures and duty assignments, considering budgetary limitations and time constraints.
- Conducted performance reviews each quarter, offering praise and recommendations for improvement.
- Applied lean principles to improve workflow and quality and reduce waste.
- Oversaw inventory management, ensuring optimal levels were maintained to meet production demands without excessive stockpiling or shortages.
Pack Tech III
SK Food Group
Cleveland, TN
03.2025 - 12.2025
- Implemented process improvements that increased production efficiency by optimizing workflows.
- Operated machinery to ensure efficient food processing and production flow.
- Conducted routine equipment maintenance to minimize downtime and enhance reliability.
- Trained junior technicians on operational procedures and safety protocols.
- Collaborated with quality assurance teams to uphold product standards and compliance regulations.
Team Leader
DENSO Manufacturing Tennessee (DMAT)
Athens, TN
04.2013 - 01.2025
- Enhanced team productivity by implementing efficient work processes and regularly reviewing performance metrics.
- Traveled to various Denso locations for product line development and machine manufacturers for product line development.
- Performed machine capabilities assessments using CPK analysis to identify operational improvements.
- Directed machinery installation, workforce onboarding, and production launch while sustaining perfect quality standards.
- Developed team members'' skills through targeted coaching sessions, resulting in improved individual performance.
- Led cross-functional teams to execute projects on time, within budget, and with high-quality outcomes.
- Streamlined workflows for increased efficiency, reducing turnaround times for critical tasks.
- Managed conflict resolution among team members, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
- Established clear communication channels that ensured the timely exchange of information between team members and stakeholders.
- Coordinated resources effectively to meet project deadlines and achieve desired results.
- Optimized resource allocation to maximize overall team output while minimizing costs.
- Collaborated with other department leaders to establish shared goals and ensure alignment across teams.
- Empowered team members by delegating responsibilities according to individual strengths and areas of expertise.
- Increased customer satisfaction ratings by closely monitoring service quality standards and addressing any issues promptly.
- Guided decision-making processes within the group through open dialogue and consensus-building.
- Maintained an inclusive and diverse team culture, promoting respect and understanding among all members.
- Monitored team performance and provided constructive feedback to increase productivity and maintain quality standards.
- Established open and professional relationships with team members to achieve quick resolutions for various issues.
- Held daily team meetings to inform team members on company news and updates.
- Educated staff on organizational mission and goals to help employees achieve success.
- Recommended improvements to adapt to changing business demands by recommending improvements to business systems or procedures.
- Frequently inspected production area to verify proper equipment operation.
- Developed effective improvement plans in alignment with goals and specifications.
- Conducted regular reviews of operations and identified areas for improvement.
- Developed and updated tracking spreadsheets for process monitoring and reporting.
- Managed databases to track and analyze operational data to track and analyze operational data.
- Collected, organized, and entered data into digital databases into digital database.
- Devised and implemented processes and procedures to streamline operations.
- Generated reports detailing findings and recommendations.
- Maintained overall safe work environment with employee training programs and enforcement of safety procedures.
- Communicated KPIs outlined in annual plan to inform employees of expectations and deliverables.
- Promoted high standards through personal example to help each member understand expected behavior and standards.
- Promoted a culture of continuous improvement by encouraging feedback from all levels of the organization and implementing actionable changes accordingly.
- Mentored junior staff members, helping them develop their leadership potential and advance in their careers.
- Provided ongoing support to direct reports, addressing concerns or questions promptly so they could remain focused on their tasks.
- Evaluated team member performance against established objectives during regular reviews, offering praise for achievements or identifying areas requiring further development.
- Set performance expectations for the team and monitored progress towards goals.
Machine Operator
DENSO Manufacturing Tennessee(DMAT)
Athens, TN
10.2011 - 04.2013
- Performed routine machine maintenance and troubleshooting, enhancing production efficiency by minimizing disruptions.
- Enhanced production efficiency by performing routine machine maintenance and troubleshooting issues.
- Increased product quality by meticulously monitoring machine settings and making precise adjustments.
- Reduced downtime by conducting regular equipment inspections and identifying necessary repairs.
- Collaborated with team members to streamline production processes, contributing to improved overall performance.
- Adhered to strict quality control measures, guaranteeing consistent product output that met or exceeded customer expectations.
- Utilized Lean Manufacturing principles to identify areas for process improvement and increased efficiency.
- Trained new employees on proper machine operation, ensuring adherence to company standards and safety guidelines.
- Demonstrated adaptability by quickly learning how to operate new machinery and implementing newly introduced processes within the production environment.
- Applied Lean Manufacturing principles to identify and implement process improvements, driving increased efficiency.
- Followed detailed instructions to operate machines with accuracy and produce quality products.
- Set up and adjusted equipment and properly configured machines for daily operation.
- Loaded raw materials into machines and unloaded finished products to keep manufacturing process running smoothly.
- Monitored machines during operation to detect sounds of malfunction or excessive vibration and adjusted machines to eliminate problems.
- Replenished materials and supplies as needed to maintain production.
- Maintained equipment performance by lubricating and cleaning components.
- Collaborated with team members to optimize production processes and improve overall performance.
- Provided feedback on equipment performance issues, enabling engineers to develop effective solutions for recurring problems.
- Configured machines for optimal operation at the start of production shifts. and adjusted equipment and properly configured machines for daily operation.
- Updated daily production logs and informed management of production incidents or non-conformance issues.
- Kept detailed production records and identified hold-ups.
- Quickly shut down equipment in emergency situations following protocols.
- Suggested specific ideas for process, productivity and safety improvements.
- Used precision measuring tools, micrometers and calipers to meet required product specifications.
- Quickly shut down equipment in emergency situations following protocols.
- Suggested specific ideas for process, productivity and safety improvements.
Laborer
TVA
Spring City, TN
01.2010 - 10.2011
- Improved worksite efficiency by maintaining clean and organized work areas.
- Improved project timelines through effective collaboration with team members on various tasks.
- Supported construction projects by assisting with heavy equipment operations and manual labor tasks.
- Ensured safety compliance through regular inspection of tools and equipment, reporting any issues promptly.
- Adapted to changing priorities to ensure project completion.
- Fostered positive work environment through strong teamwork and communication.
- Maintained high-quality workmanship through attention to detail and adherence to industry standards.
- Supported timely project completions by consistently meeting assigned task deadlines.
- Mitigated potential hazards with thorough site cleanup efforts at the end of each workday.
- Expanded skill set through continuous learning of new techniques, tools, and equipment related to laborer tasks.
- Demonstrated flexibility with shifting responsibilities based on project needs, contributing to overall productivity levels.
- Collaborated on diverse projects requiring effective communication between multiple tradespeople for seamless execution.
- Delivered consistent results under challenging weather conditions or other external factors affecting productivity.
- Excavated trenches and holes for utility and sewer installation. to allow for utility, water and sewer installation and proper foundation for structures.
- Provided labor support to carpenters, masons and other skilled trades.
- Prepared and poured concrete mixtures for various construction projects. for a variety of projects.
Team Leader
Waupaca Foundry, Inc.
Etowah, TN
03.2004 - 01.2010
- Enhanced team productivity by implementing efficient work processes and regularly reviewing performance metrics.
- Developed team members'' skills through targeted coaching sessions, resulting in improved individual performance.
- Streamlined workflows for increased efficiency, reducing turnaround times for critical tasks.
- Managed conflict resolution among team members, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
- Established clear communication channels that ensured the timely exchange of information between team members and stakeholders.
- Coordinated resources to meet project deadlines and deliver results aligned with team objectives.
- Mentored junior staff members, helping them develop their leadership potential and advance in their careers.
- Set performance expectations for the team, monitored progress towards goals and provided constructive feedback.
- Optimized resource allocation to maximize overall team output while minimizing costs.
- Collaborated with other department leaders to establish shared goals and ensure alignment across teams.
- Empowered team members by delegating responsibilities according to individual strengths and areas of expertise.
- Promoted continuous improvement culture by encouraging feedback organization-wide and implementing actionable changes based on input.
- Increased customer satisfaction ratings by closely monitoring service quality standards and addressing any issues promptly.
- Facilitated decision-making processes through open dialogue, active listening, and consensus-building techniques, enhancing group collaboration.
- Evaluated team member performance against established objectives during regular reviews, offering praise for achievements or identifying areas requiring further development.
- Performed risk assessments to identify potential challenges and mitigate issues proactively. for each project phase, proactively identifying potential obstacles before they became significant challenges.
- Provided ongoing support to direct reports, addressing concerns or questions promptly so they could remain focused on their tasks.
- Maintained an inclusive and diverse team culture, promoting respect and understanding among all members.
- Monitored team performance and provided constructive feedback to increase productivity and maintain quality standards.
- Supervised team members to confirm compliance with set procedures and quality requirements.
- Worked with team to identify areas of improvement and devised solutions based on findings.
- Built strong relationships with customers through positive attitude and attentive response.
- Established open and professional relationships with team members to achieve quick resolutions for various issues.
- Mentored and guided employees to foster proper completion of assigned duties.
- Promoted high standards through personal example to help each member understand expected behaviors and standards.
- Held weekly team meetings to inform team members on company news and updates.
- Updated company records to maintain accurate documentation of team activities. company records related to team activities for future reference.
- Evaluated staff performance and provided coaching to address inefficiencies.
- Maintained overall safe work environment with employee training programs and enforcement of safety procedures.
- Educated staff on organizational mission and goals to help employees achieve success.
- Recommended improvements to business systems to adapt to evolving market needs. by recommending improvements to business systems or procedures.
- Frequently inspected production area to verify proper equipment operation.
- Conducted regular reviews of operations and identified areas for improvement.
- Developed and updated tracking spreadsheets for process monitoring and reporting.
- Collected, arranged, and input information into database system.
- Optimized customer experience by delivering superior services and effectively troubleshooting issues.
Case Picker
Peyton's Southeastern
Cleveland,TN
09.2002 - 03.2004
- Increased order accuracy by meticulously picking items according to customer specifications.
- Enhanced warehouse efficiency through proper utilization of RF scanning equipment for accurate inventory management.
- Expedited order processing by consistently meeting daily case picking targets.
- Maintained a safe working environment by adhering to OSHA guidelines and company safety policies during case picking tasks.
- Reduced product damage with careful handling and appropriate packaging of picked items.
- Collaborated with team members to optimize workflow and streamline case picking processes.
- Ensured timely delivery of orders by prioritizing urgent requests and coordinating with the shipping department.
- Contributed to waste reduction efforts by promptly reporting damaged or expired products for proper disposal or return.
- Supported continuous improvement initiatives by actively participating in training sessions and implementing best practices in case picking operations.
- Maximized productivity by effectively utilizing available resources, including pallet jacks, forklifts, and other material handling equipment during case picking tasks.
- Seamlessly integrated new employees into the team by providing mentorship and guidance on best case-picking practices.
- Streamlined order fulfillment by communicating discrepancies to supervisors during case picking.
- Promoted a positive work atmosphere by maintaining open lines of communication with colleagues and fostering teamwork in the workplace.
- Consistently exceeded performance expectations, resulting in increased responsibilities and recognition for excellence in the case picking role.
- Operated forklift to efficiently transport goods within warehouse environment.
- Ensured accurate order picking by following established protocols and guidelines.
- Maintained inventory accuracy through regular cycle counts and audits.
Assistant Manager
Watson's Grocery
Benton, TN
03.1999 - 09.2002
- Improved customer satisfaction by addressing and resolving complaints promptly.
- Streamlined store operations for increased efficiency, implementing new processes and procedures.
- Cultivated strong relationships with staff, enhancing collaboration and morale.
- Increased sales through effective merchandising strategies and targeted promotions.
- Managed inventory levels to minimize stockouts while reducing overhead costs.
- Performed employee performance evaluations, delivering constructive feedback to support professional growth.
- Collaborated with the management team to develop strategic plans for business growth and improvement.
- Oversaw daily cash reconciliations, ensuring accurate financial reporting and minimizing discrepancies.
- Maintained a clean, safe, and organized store environment to enhance the customer experience.
- Assisted in recruiting, interviewing, hiring, and onboarding of new employees to maintain adequate staffing levels.
- Coordinated employee schedules for optimal coverage to ensure proper coverage during peak shopping hours without exceeding labor budgets.
- Monitored sales trends to adjust pricing strategies accordingly for optimal profitability.
- Coordinated with vendors to ensure timely delivery of products and resolve any supply chain issues.
- Facilitated clear communication between employees and upper management through regular meetings and updates.
- Enforced company policies consistently while handling disciplinary actions when necessary with fairness and respect.
- Encouraged collaboration among team members within the workplace by encouraging collaboration among staff members on various projects / tasks.
- Supervised day-to-day operations to meet performance, quality and service expectations.
- Monitored cash intake and deposit records, increasing accuracy, and reducing discrepancies.
- Offered hands-on assistance to customers, assessing needs, and maintaining current knowledge of consumer preferences.
- Mentored team members to enhance professional development and accountability in workplace.
- Created employee schedules to align coverage with forecasted demands.
- Developed strategy to increase sales and drive profits.
- Analyzed sales reports for performance insights and gross profit report to assess company efficiency.
- Enhanced merchandising and promotional strategies, increasing customer engagement and driving sales.
- Monitored security to protect employees, customers and property.
- Opened and closed location and monitored shift changes to uphold successful operations strategies and maximize business success.
- Maintained professional demeanor by staying calm when addressing unhappy or angry customers.
- Established team priorities, maintained schedules and monitored performance.
- Defined clear targets and objectives and communicated to other team members.
- Used industry expertise, customer service skills and analytical nature to resolve customer concerns and promote loyalty.
- Improved staffing during busy periods by creating employee schedules and monitoring call-outs.
- Managed department resources effectively and assets for department activities to comply with industry standards and government regulations.
- Developed loyal and highly satisfied customer base through proactive management of team customer service strategies.
Education
No Degree - Computer Engineering
Tennessee College of Applied Technology - Athens
Athens, TNHigh School Diploma -
Polk County High School
Benton, TN05-2001
Skills
- Overtime Management
- Complaint Resolution
- Lean Manufacturing
- Complex Problem-Solving
- Work Planning and Prioritization
- Effective Communication
- Relationship Building
- Strategic Planning
- Cross-functional Collaboration
- Influencing Skills
- Attention to Detail
- Work Planning
Accomplishments
I have led several successful projects in my career at DENSO, listed are a few examples:
- Lean Management - I was on a project that streamlined manpower to a single crew while successfully meeting production requirements across two distinct production lines. The same project had been attempted at other sites but without success, my management team and I was the first to successfully complete the project.
- Department Closure - I effectively closed the Stick Coil department, comprising three production lines, meeting all deadlines seamlessly. Notably, the department maintained the longest streak of zero customer returns or complaints on campus. I successfully relocated each associate both during and after the shutdown.
- Project Management / New Business - Engaged in project management and new business initiatives, I contributed to two distinct projects.
- In 2019, I embarked on a five-week business trip to Japan for training as part of the first project, which, despite being successful and ahead of schedule, was unfortunately discontinued due to the impact of Covid19.
- The second new business project was a success and broke company records for Quality and Safety. I spent a total of 17 weeks traveling in the United States and Mexico for the project. I visited several Denso facilities for training and machine makers to confirm progress of equipment. I performed all CPK studies on new equipment and finalized the purchase agreements. I overseen the project from day one, including the demolition and removal of former equipment, new construction and expansion of the building, installation of the new product lines and finally all the Quality Reviews for approval of Start of Production. My team and I overcame all obstacles and met every deadline and had the longest running record for zero quality or safety issues of any start up project at any Denso location. This project was a collaboration between four countries, five Denso locations and a team of over 300 people.
Timeline
Manufacturing Manager
SK Food Group
12.2025 - 09.2026
Pack Tech III
SK Food Group
03.2025 - 12.2025
Team Leader
DENSO Manufacturing Tennessee (DMAT)
04.2013 - 01.2025
Machine Operator
DENSO Manufacturing Tennessee(DMAT)
10.2011 - 04.2013
Laborer
TVA
01.2010 - 10.2011
Team Leader
Waupaca Foundry, Inc.
03.2004 - 01.2010
Case Picker
Peyton's Southeastern
09.2002 - 03.2004
Assistant Manager
Watson's Grocery
03.1999 - 09.2002
No Degree - Computer Engineering
Tennessee College of Applied Technology - Athens
High School Diploma -
Polk County High School