AVON LAKE, Ohio Design Engineering Inc. (DEI) President David Markley recently announced the hiring of Thomas Browning as the company’s new operations manager. Browning, who began in his new position on Aug. 1, is now responsible for managing the production for all DEI brands including: DEI, DEI Cycle, Ny-Trex, Boom Mat, SPA Turbo, CRYO2 and Radiator Relief.
Browning has more than 15 years of experience in operations management, previously serving as vice president for JB Design Inc. (dba CORSA Performance) and later as operations manager for TMG Performance Products, (dba CORSA Performance.) Browning worked his way through the ranks at CORSA, first as shop foreman/welder/fabricator before becoming plant manager in 1995. While at CORSA, he had the opportunity to play a major role in developing business systems, improving production throughput and implementing effective supply chain strategies as the company experienced rapid growth during the late 90s and into the new decade.
Effective immediately, Browning is responsible for the management and supervision of all production personnel, forecasting and capacity planning, quality control, safety and compliance, purchasing, allocation of manufacturing assets, shipping and inventory control effectively everything related to the production supply chain.
Browning has industry experience in lean manufacturing, and has participated in many seminars related to total quality management, effective leadership and strategic thinking and planning. He also has been a guest lecturer for Constraints Management Group’s Annual User Conference and served as quality management representative for ISO 9001:2000 implementation and certification.
Markley states, “Thomas (Tom) has an impressive track record that combines multiple management skills that makes him the right person for this position. As our sales and manufacturing demands continue to accelerate we needed a person that was particularly adept at team building and problem solving to help us manage our production needs. He is proven and well respected in the industry and we feel confident that as we continue to grow Tom will be able to see the big picture and help us plan accordingly for all capital improvements, facility expansions and labor needs.”
Browning added, “I already feel at home at DEI now. The company’s reputation for high-quality, in-demand products is one reason why it was an easy move to DEI. It is exciting to be part of a company that is on a path of growth despite the less than cooperative economy. I am looking forward to what we can accomplish together in the short- and long-term.”