Behind the scenes heroes: Meet Robert, our Business Improvement Manager.

Robert came into Hutchinson as an apprentice, completing a 3-year programme during which he achieved BTEC Level 3 in Manufacturing & Mechanical Engineering. We spoke to him about his experience and the opportunities for development and progression he has had during his time here.

Q1. What were you doing before Hutchinson?

Before joining Hutchinson, I was a high school student focusing on subjects such as Engineering, Technology, and IT. I was particularly interested in hands-on, practical learning, and these subjects provided me with a solid foundation in problem-solving and technical knowledge. My passion for understanding how things work and my desire to build a career in engineering led me to pursue an apprenticeship with Hutchinson.

Q2. You completed an apprenticeship at Hutchinson, could you tell us a bit about that?

During my three-year apprenticeship at Hutchinson, I worked four days a week on-site while studying one day a week at NRC Ballymena, where I completed a BTEC Level 3 in Manufacturing & Mechanical Engineering.

Within Hutchinson, I primarily worked in the Stores & Dispatch team. Being involved at the final stage of the product manufacturing process allowed me to gain valuable insights into the company's operations, right from laser programming to dispatch. This experience helped me build strong working relationships across different departments and develop a deeper understanding of how various functions within the business connect

Q3. What does a typical day in your role look like?

As the Business Improvement Manager, my day is dynamic and varied. I am heavily involved in multiple key strategic projects across the business, working closely with everyone from senior directors to shop-floor teams. My role revolves around problem-solving, continuous improvement, and driving efficiency.

Over the past few years, I have led the company’s business improvement strategy by delivering various initiatives, including site-wide workshops to promote lean thinking and creative problem-solving. Implementing these ideas has helped enhance processes and overall operational performance.

Every day presents new challenges and opportunities, but I thrive in a fast-paced environment and enjoy the variety of work my role offers.

Q4. What are the best things about working at Hutchinson?

One of the best things about working at Hutchinson is the supportive and innovative environment. The company is committed to investing in its people, offering training and development opportunities that help employees grow in their careers.

There’s also a strong emphasis on collaboration, and I enjoy being part of a team that values creativity and problem-solving. Additionally, working for a company that embraces cutting-edge technologies and continuously strives for improvement makes the job both exciting and rewarding.

Q5. Any advice for someone who is thinking about doing an apprenticeship?

If you’re thinking about doing an apprenticeship, go for it. It’s a fantastic way to gain practical experience while learning on the job. Be proactive, ask questions, and take every opportunity to learn from your mentors. An apprenticeship can open doors to many career paths and give you a head start in understanding the industry.