Howard Lister
Director of Operations
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About
Seasoned operations executive with a passion for building efficient teams and delivering high-quality manufacturing solutions. As Director of Operations at RAFI Group, lead initiatives supporting the production of innovative Human-Machine Interface (HMI) systems used across a range of industries. Known for a hands-on leadership style, commitment to continuous improvement, and the ability to mentor teams while driving measurable business results.
Brings over two decades of experience navigating complex operational challenges and delivering consistent success.
Experience
Director of Operations - Xymox Technologies - RAFI Group - Milwaukee, WI
(2020-09 - 2026-03)
The global leader in Human-Machine Interface (HMI) systems. Leveraging RAFI's extensive network and facilities across six countries, we deliver expertly crafted, efficient, and fully-integrated system solutions. We specialize in custom control components, ensuring exceptional user experiences and reliable product performance. By deeply understanding our customers' needs, we partner with them throughout the product lifecycle, providing seamless transitions and component updates.
- Took screen printing schedule that was 200 hours behind and caught up within 4 months
- Installed a production line to double capacity of one of Xymox's larges medical customers
- Monitor daily production schedules to ensure on-time delivery of HMI components and systems
- Address bottlenecks on the shop floor and adjust resources as needed
- Ensure quality standards and throughout targets are consistently met
- Manage and support department leads (production, engineering, quality, supply chain)
- Identified ways to improve processes
- Coordinate with procurement to ensure materials are available
- Troubleshoot supplier delays and quality issues
- Collaborate with sales and accounts teams on customer requirements
- Track operational costs and identify cost-savings opportunities
Screen Printing Manager - Bergquist - E2IP Technologies - Big Fork, MN
(2000-07 - 2020-08)
e2ip started more than 40 years ago as a family business specializing in screen printing, while over time it continued to grow into new market segments, innovating and expanding its solutions. Through acquisitions of other companies, a group of diversified business units were formed. In a natural evolution, the company's expertise and carefully crafted IP and technology portfolio led to the present-day focus on its 5 products: Smart Structural Surfaces™ (In-Mold Electronics), Electromechanical Systems (EMS), Membrane Switches, 5G Smart Surfaces and Smart Touch Surfaces (Embedded Systems).
- Started with screen printing 150 jobs behind schedule, resolved in 6 months
- Reduced a 20% weekly screen reshoot to less than 2% within 2 months
- Review daily production schedules and prioritize jobs
- Oversee printing of electronic circuits, touch interfaces and graphic overlays
- Inspect output for defects like misregistration or ink inconsistencies
- Improved printing techniques
- Make sure presses and curing equipment are properly set up and maintained
Senior Process Engineer - Assistant Operations Manager - Design Mark Industries - New Bedford MA
(1998-04 - 2000-05)
Large OEMs, contract manufacturers, and engineering/design teams around the world rely on Design Mark for very large production runs (as well as small runs) of user-interface technologies and more.
- Analyze production data to identify inefficiencies
- Train and guide new personnel
- Purchasing and improvement of state of the art equipment
- Lead initiatives to reduce scraps and rework, improve cycle times and increase throughput
- Partnered with quality team to investigate defects and root causes
Education
Certificate - Front Line Supervision Course - Bryant College
Certificate - Dale Carnegie Course - Dale Carnegie
