Meet Gavin. He tells us about how his career progressed – and why working in advanced manufacturing works for him! Here’s his story…
How did you get into advanced manufacturing?
I started my career in finance but quickly changed my path to join the manufacturing sector at the age of 19, as I realised that the hands-on nature of the industry would really suit me.
Since then, I’ve been working in the automotive industry for almost 20 years!
Tell us about the roles you’ve had in your career…
I began my manufacturing career as a production operator where I gained valuable experience on the production line. I then transitioned into my first team leader role six years later where I learnt leadership skills and how to manage people. From there, I was promoted to Shift Supervisor and then to Manufacturing Project Supervisor where I was responsible for overseeing assembly operations, developing processes and training staff for new model launches.
With this experience under my belt, I decided to apply for a job at Highly Marelli in 2022. I joined the team as Manufacturing Senior Supervisor, adding daily operations management, like continuous improvement within production, to my skillset, before being promoted into my current role of Manufacturing Section Leader in 2024.
What do you like most about your job?
People are a major part of the workplace, especially in manufacturing, and the team I manage are fantastic. At Highly Marelli, we’re all supportive of each other and we work together to deliver results.
The support from my manager is incredible as well. I know that they believe in me, and they really encourage me to reach my full potential.
No matter what level you’re at in the company, there are no egos – everyone wants what’s best for each other and it’s a real driving factor when it comes to progressing.
I also have the opportunity to travel the world with my role. In my current position, I am responsible for standardising processes across the company, which means that I have the chance to visit other Highly Marelli plants in Spain, Japan and the USA.
What does the sector offer to job seekers?
There are loads of benefits like career progression, competitive salaries and training opportunities. One thing I think is really important is job security.
Why should someone from South Tyneside consider a job in advanced manufacturing?
The sector is massive in the North East of England. There are lots of roles within it so you could look to join the team on the shop floor as production or support staff, or you could join the sector in roles dedicated to HR, supply chain, health and safety, finance – the list goes on!
The brilliant thing about the advanced manufacturing sector is that, whatever role you decide to choose, you can start as a beginner and develop into anything you want to be.
Gavin is making it. You can too.
Click here for more information on advanced manufacturing careers, the support on offer and the careers events that are coming up!
