What do you do in your current role? As General Manager I provide strategic direction and leadership for the global remanufacturing business within Deere. This includes the responsibility and oversight of our Reman facilities in Springfield and Strafford, Missouri, Edmonton, Alberta Canada and global distribution. I focus on manufacturing, procuring, and marketing the highest quality remanufactured parts for John Deere agriculture, construction and forestry customers. We primarily produce remanufactured
engines, drive train, fuel, rotating electrical, AC, turbo and electronic components. My team works closely with our sister John Deere product lines to determine our customer’s remanufactured component needs, which often leads to a broadening of our portfolio or markets that we serve. Another important part of my role is staying engaged in my local community and industry specific efforts that support our business and ability to attract, retain and develop excellent employees.
How long have you been in the remanufacturing industry? John Deere has been in the remanufacturing business for over twenty years, formed originally through a series of joint ventures, we now have three wholly owned businesses. Personally I have been in the business for just under a year, making my engagement in RIC even more instrumental to my understanding of the industry.
What is your favorite thing about your job? I have three favorite areas of my job; the people, the work to improve the business, and my commitment to our community. First, the people associated with our business: We have an amazing team, with a depth of knowledge related to remanufacturing unrivaled within Deere and many of our competitors. It is a joy to work with them, learn from them and a thrill to experience the competitive advantage it provides us. Secondly: I also enjoy the daily
struggle and desire to improve our business. As in any other remanufacturing or manufacturing business we are continually striving to improve the rigor with which we execute to consistently meet customer, dealer and other stakeholder needs. Thirdly: I am not only engaged in RIC, but I also actively participate in Springfield, MO community organizations, which strengthens our ties to universities, other businesses, and associations that support us. I am passionate about the Springfield area and the unique focus on remanufacturing that we have here, this translates into ways that can help us attract, retain and develop employees within the John Deere Reman business.
Why did you get involved with RIC? John Deere has a long standing engagement with RIC and I was introduced to the organization as I started my new role as GM. The RIC mission is synonymous with what we are trying to accomplish internally at John Deere in terms of awareness, education and standardization of remanufacturing. In addition, RIC enriches our understanding of what is happening in the industry, best practices we can leverage and ways we can improve our business. Thus, my involvement in the RIC board not only allows me to have a significant impact
on the public’s understanding of remanufacturing, but also enables my organization to tap into a wealth of resources, expertise and committees that have a significant impact on our business.
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