Kevin Low

Senior manufacturing and operations leader with 25+ year's experience across paper, plastics recycling, water storage and engineered manufacturing environments. Proven track record of full site responsibility including production, quality, HSE, HR, procurement and continuous improvement. Strong background in ISO 9001 / ISO 14001 systems, lean manufacturing, KPI management, and operational turnaround.

Recognised for improving efficiency, reducing costs, building engaged teams, and delivering measurable improvements in quality, output and compliance.

Production Manager at McDonald Water Storage (2024-01 – Present)

Full site responsibility for manufacturing operations, production performance, quality systems, procurement and workforce management.

• Reduced internal quality defects from 12% to 4.7% through improved process control and workforce engagement
• Implemented and maintained ISO 9001 Quality Management System
• Introduced ISO 14001 Environmental Management System
• Developed KPI framework improving operational visibility and accountability
• Led production planning, purchasing, HR processes and resource allocation
• Delivered lean and 5S improvements across production areas

Plant Manager at PI Polymer Recycling Ltd (2023-06 – 2024-01)

Supported directors in successful start-up of new plastics recycling facility.

• Developed operational, health & safety, and quality systems from ground level
• Established sustainable production procedures and management controls

Operations Manager at Yes Recycling (Fife) Ltd (2022-03 – 2023-06)

Led commissioning and operational start-up of state-of-the-art recycling and extrusion facility.

• Implemented SOPs, environmental controls, risk assessments, and KPI systems
• Directed production, maintenance, quality, recruitment, and succession planning
• Introduced lean systems and 5S methodologies across all departments

Production Manager PM8 at ArjoWiggins Fine Papers Ltd (2016-03 – 2022-03)

• Increased output from 4.6 to 5 tons/hour through strategic process improvements
• Reduced downtime from 7.5% to 5%, delivering annual savings of £350,000
• Delivered £450,000 in cost savings through focused continuous improvement projects
• Reduced customer complaints by over 70% through DMAIC-led quality initiatives

Shift Operations Manager at ArjoWiggins Fine Papers Ltd (2015-06 – 2016-03)

Provided operational leadership across shift teams and daily manufacturing performance.

• Supported lean implementation and productivity improvement programs

Production Manager / Assistant Production Manager / Team Leader at Tullis Russell Papermakers (1998 – 2015)

Progressed through multiple senior leadership roles within large-scale manufacturing.

• Developed extensive expertise in production leadership, machine operations, and team development
• Contributed to major process, quality, and efficiency improvements

Gained through experience