James Watts

Background

About James Watts

A highly experienced and results-driven Engineering Professional with 30+ years in manufacturing, mechanical engineering, and CNC machining. Strong track record in process improvement, project management, team leadership, and quality assurance across aerospace, medical, automotive, and marine industries. Core Skills CNC machining (Fanuc, Heidenhain, Mastercam) Lean tools: Six Sigma, 5Y, DMAIC, FMEA, Kaizen Quality systems, audits, and process reengineering Data analysis, MES systems, and OEE improvement Cross-functional project leadership and training Key strengths include: Leadership & Management: Proven success managing teams and departments. Roles include Project managing, Process Engineer at BD Diagnostics and Joinery/Standardisation Manager at Lang & Potter. Engineering Expertise: Skilled in CNC machining (Fanuc, Heidenhain, Mastercam), mechanical problem-solving, process reengineering, Six Sigma, DMAIC, FMEA, and Kaizen. Quality & Compliance: Significant achievements in quality control and assurance, achieving 100% audit scores and implementing robust quality tracking systems. Project Management: Delivered high-impact projects, including machine refurbishments, operational standardisation, and process upgrades with measurable cost and time savings. Training & Mentorship: Developed training manuals, mentored apprentices, and led technical upskilling initiatives. Certifications & Training: Extensive vocational qualifications including City & Guilds, BTEC, ONC, CAD, CNC programming, health & safety, fire safety, and various equipment-specific licenses. Career Highlights BD Diagnostics: Led high-impact process improvements and equipment upgrades; improved OEE and coached robust problem-solving practices. Barden Bearings: Reduced scrap and lead time through re-engineered processes; saved approx. Lang & Potter: Improved quality to achieve record 100% audit scores; led standardisation and machine investment projects. Wrigley: Managed full refurb projects (machinery & sugar system) under budget; developed maintenance and risk protocols. Hymec Aerospace: Slashed scrap from 50% to 1%; led a CNC team of 20+, developed training materials and quality systems.