David Thomas

Dynamic and results-oriented Technical Manager with over 30 years of experience in engineering, project management, and maintenance across dairy, nuclear, and manufacturing industries. Adept at leading cross-functional teams, optimizing operational efficiency, and delivering innovative technical solutions to achieve business goals. Proven expertise in project planning, budgeting, and compliance, with a strong focus on safety and quality assurance.

Fluent in English and Afrikaans, with excellent communication and leadership skills.

• Technical Management & Maintenance: Streamlined operations for enhanced efficiency and reduced costs.
• Project Planning & Execution: Successfully managed multimillion-dollar projects to completion.
• Team Leadership & Training: Mentored and developed high-performing technical teams.
• Budgeting & Financial Oversight: Expertise in financial forecasting and cost control.
• Process Optimization: Implemented innovative solutions to improve KPIs and reduce energy use.
• Compliance & Safety: Ensured adherence to regulatory and safety standards.
• Technical Skills: Proficient in PLC programming, HACCP, MS Project, IFS, and Microsoft Office.

Senior Construction Supervisor

Lesedi Nuclear Services, Koeberg Power Station (Steam Generator Replacement Project)

October 2022 – December 2024 | Cape Town, South Africa

• Managed subcontractors to ensure project milestones were met while maintaining strict adherence to safety and quality standards.
• Conducted pre-job safety briefings and risk assessments to ensure compliance with installation plans.
• Compiled and finalized comprehensive end-of-project quality documentation.
• Played a key role in drafting work sequence plans, inspection plans, and change documentation for the Steam Generator Replacement project.

Lactalis South Africa, Cape Town UHT and Ice Cream Factories

July 2020 – August 2022 | Cape Town, South Africa

• Led a team of 20 technical staff, improving departmental KPIs through effective staff structuring and performance management.
• Streamlined technical operations, achieving significant reductions in costs and energy consumption.
• Oversaw financial budgeting, forecasting, and supplier account management to ensure operational efficiency.
• Ensured compliance with legislative requirements and managed technical stock and purchase orders.

SIG Combibloc Obeikan FZCO, Almarai Dairy UHT

August 2013 – August 2019 | Saudi Arabia

• Managed a full-service contract for 10 Combibloc fillers, overseeing 19 field service engineers for 24-hour production coverage.
• Improved line efficiencies through strategic coaching, root cause analysis, and a “100-year fix” approach.
• Managed technical budgets and regional spare parts stockholding, optimizing operational performance.
• Conducted performance appraisals and developed tailored training plans for service engineers.

Jetvac South Africa

November 2009 – May 2013 | Cape Town, South Africa

• Grew department turnover from under R100,000 to over R750,000 per month through strategic sales and project management.
• Led budgeting, financial control, and tender management for CCTV and pipe rehabilitation services.
• Oversaw staff recruitment, training, and performance management, fostering department growth.
• Established a new branch in Tshwane to support a awarded tender.

Lesedi Nuclear Services (An AREVA NP Company)

January 2005 – October 2009 | Cape Town, South Africa

• Spearheaded implementation of new equipment and modifications to enhance nuclear safety at Koeberg Power Station.
• Managed subcontractors, compiled work plans, and conducted SHE risk assessments for multimillion-dollar projects.
• Supported the implementation of IFS (MRP software) and provided training on project and contract management modules.
• Led the installation of emergency cooling filters, achieving technical and financial success.

NADA Dairy

January 2003 – November 2004 | Saudi Arabia

• Managed maintenance operations for a dairy processing 200,000L of milk and 220,000L of juice daily.
• Oversaw installation of new filling lines, processing equipment, and a reverse osmosis plant.
• Implemented a computerized maintenance management system (CMMS) to optimize maintenance schedules and spare parts control.

Bonnita / Parmalat Zambia

1998 – 1998 | Lusaka, Zambia

• Led the refurbishment of a state-owned dairy, installing new boilers, refrigeration systems, and a Tetra Pak UHT plant.
• Managed production planning, staff training, and procurement for a factory processing 50,000L of milk and 30,000L of juice daily.
• Designed and commissioned a new yogurt processing and packaging line.

Bonnita / Parmalat Parow

1996 – 1998 | Cape Town, South Africa

• Supervised maintenance operations for a modern UHT milk and juice plant, ensuring high operational uptime.
• Received advanced training from Tetra Pak in Sweden and served as a candidate for factory management roles.

T3 mechanical engineering