James McKenzie

A methodical, self-motivated, and quality-driven Lab Technician and Quality Coordinator with over 35 years of experience in engineering, manufacturing, and automotive sectors. Proven expertise in metallology laboratory testing, root cause analysis, and customer quality liaison for major automotive brands including Jaguar Land Rover and Honda. A dedicated professional committed to continuous self-improvement, operational excellence, and maintaining rigorous quality standards.

Lab Technician - WMT&R (Jaguar Land Rover Rivet Project)

(2016 - 2021)

• Operated as a core technician within a specialised metallology laboratory.
• Conducted precise material testing and structural analysis on riveting components for high-end automotive production.
• Maintained strict adherence to laboratory safety protocols and precision measurement standards.

Customer Quality Coordinator - Hella Manufacturing Limited

(2009 - 2015)

• Served as the primary point of contact for non-conforming products supplied to Land Rover, Honda (CRV), and Jaguar.
• Liaised directly with OEM customers to deliver updates on quality concerns and corrective actions.
• Managed cross-functional communications to resolve engineering and manufacturing defects rapidly.

Production Quality Technician - Hella Manufacturing Limited

(1995 - 2009)

• Ensured high-volume production lines were continuously supplied with parts meeting strict quality metrics.
• Conducted rigorous fit and function trials, updating internal control plans to prevent manufacturing drift.
• Performed first-off and last-off gauging inspections and logged data into CMM and SDC systems.
• Executed internal quality audits and managed the Wildmere Industrial Estate Carepoint system updates.

Fabric Cutter - Spencer House

(1990 - 1995)

• Interpreted technical patterns to execute precision fabric cutting for commercial production.
• Optimised material yield and minimised waste through methodical planning and layout design.

Press Setter / Operator - Rover Group (BMW)

(1986 - 1990)

• Configured, safety-checked, and operated heavy industrial press machinery within an automotive assembly plant.
• Monitored output metrics to ensure stamped components met strict engineering tolerances.

Fabric & Pattern Cutter - Fabric Grange

(1984 - 1986)

• Managed bulk textile layouts and pattern cutting for industrial contracts.

Machine Minder / Operator - Gaydon Plastics

(1983 - 1986)

• Monitored and maintained injection moulding/extrusion machinery to ensure continuous production cycles.

City & Guilds Foundation Course - Construction - Drayton School/College (1983)