Christopher Rowland

Dynamic Manufacturing & Operations Manager with over 13 years' experience leading production, warehousing and continuous improvement within FMCG and regulated medical device environments. Proven track record of delivering operational transformation through Lean Manufacturing, ERP implementation and strategic leadership. Experienced in leading teams of over 50 employees, improving OTIF performance, reducing lead times and implementing KPI-driven management systems.

Recognised for developing high-performing teams, driving operational excellence and delivering sustainable business improvements.

Manufacturing Manager - WINNCARE (formerly Herida Healthcare)

(2025-07)

• Lead a team of 5 Team Leaders/Supervisors and 50+ production and warehouse colleagues, driving performance through coaching, SQCDP and structured performance management.
• Reduced operational lead times from 10 days to next-day dispatch, significantly improving customer responsiveness and OTIF performance.
• Manage production and distribution of 1,500+ units per week, delivering a 24-hour patient turnaround across a portfolio of 4,000+ SKUs, including own-brand and OBL medical products.
• Introduced operational KPI dashboards covering Labour Recovery, Labour Utilisation, Stock Accuracy, Right First Time and DIO, improving business visibility and accountability.
• Led the transition to a fully compliant Class IIa Medical Device Manufacturing Facility, working closely with QARA to strengthen governance and regulatory compliance.
• Established the site as the UK distribution hub for European Group drop-ship products, improving product availability and supporting UK market growth.
• Drove Lean Manufacturing, 5S and continuous improvement initiatives, increasing productivity, quality and operational efficiency.

Production Manager - WINNCARE (formerly Herida Healthcare)

(2023-08 - 2025-07)

• Led manufacturing operations for 30+ production colleagues, improving productivity and OTIF performance.
• Transitioned production from a Make-to-Order model to Work-to-Stock, supporting business growth and improved customer service.
• Implemented Microsoft Dynamics ERP, BOM configuration and Shop Floor Data Capture to improve planning accuracy and shop floor visibility.
• Successfully planned and delivered the relocation of the manufacturing facility, redesigning production layouts to maximise workflow and minimise operational disruption.
• Supported CAPEX planning, labour forecasting and quarterly budgets while acting as Site Manager during periods of absence.

Production & Planning Manager - WINNCARE (formerly Herida Healthcare)

(2021-01 - 2023-08)

• Reduced lead times and improved production flow within the Sling Department through effective planning and process improvements.
• Developed BOM-based planning tools and operational KPIs, improving production visibility, capacity planning and decision-making.
• Increased manufacturing capacity through workflow optimisation, outsourcing and improved stock management.

Production Co-ordinator - SUTCLIFFE PLAY

(2021-05 - 2021-10)

• Coordinated production schedules and material availability to consistently achieve customer delivery targets.
• Introduced SFDC reporting to improve KPI visibility and support production planning across multiple departments.

Production Manager - GNG GROUP

(2011-12 - 2021-05)

• Managed production teams of 30+ employees across multiple manufacturing departments, delivering OTIF performance and supporting post-COVID production recovery.
• Introduced Lean Manufacturing, skills matrices and workforce development initiatives to improve productivity and operational flexibility.
• Managed production planning, labour allocation, daily operational meetings and shop floor relocations while supporting new product introduction.

Production Planner - GNG GROUP

(2011-12 - 2021-05)

• Planned production across Healthcare and Sports divisions using ERP and MRP systems to maximise capacity and maintain OTIF performance.
• Worked closely with Procurement, Logistics and Manufacturing to balance customer demand with production capability.

Production Operative → Toppers Team Leader → Conversion Team Leader → Screen Printer - GNG GROUP

(2011-12 - 2021-05)

Progressed through multiple promotions over a 10-year period, developing expertise in production planning, team leadership, warehouse operations, CNC manufacturing, quality, health & safety and continuous improvement.

ILM Level 3 - Leadership & People Management

BTEC Level 3 - Sport & Physiology A Level - Sport & Physiology

GCSE - 10 GCSEs including Mathematics (B), English (C), Science (A), Business Studies (B) and IT (B)