4pManagement Ltd

Quarter 1 has been busy. The UK based petfood company I mentioned in my last blog commissioned my company to review its multi-packing operations and propose ways to increase output and improve productivity.

For my client in Mexico, I have completed the initial design review. With the client’s team we have produced an action plan that is being worked through with the OEMs. I’m now engaged on the second part of the commission which is recruitment of key personnel and developing their start up plan.

My client in Italy extended the commission to include project support during the build phase of the line, working with the OEMs, through to the SAT. Managing the information flow from the OEMs to the clients marketing and packaging specialists and keeping the drum beat of the project.

All this work was carried out remotely in agreement with my fantastic clients, which allowed me to have a total knee replacement. It’s an old sport injury…. play sport they said, keep you fit they said…..didn’t tell you about the issues in later life!

I had a week off for the operation and was immobile, but by the second week I could work again, although taking plenty of rest and stretching exercises. Eight weeks have now gone by and I’m walking ok-ish…. swinging a golf club and back at the gym. I’ve also restarted client site visits, with two trips to my UK client, plus plans in place to visit the Czech Republic and Mexico in early Q2.

The Czech Republic is a new commission to review a client’s line and recommend improvements to increase OEE and minimise waste. They are part of the same group who own the Italian factory, which is always pleasing to get repeat commissions.

I have also purchased 4p Management branded apparel, see below. I want to give the right impression when I arrive on site, and this helps.

Finally, I’ve also continued my professional development and completed all the PDU’s to retain my PMI qualification. A very interesting set of webinars that increase your understanding on project management.

Looking ahead to the rest of the year, I’m trying to increase my base of associates, to make a network of specialists who can help my clients. I’ve already contacted other consultants who I know through the petfood industry in the areas of process design, packaging development, thermal transfer, utilities design & general drafting. I want to complete this network with quality management and product development, if you have these skills, please send me an email.