Lee Poplin

Experience

• 

  Panasonic North America

  Jul 1994 - May 2000

  Quality Engineer
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  Aqua Air Technologies LLC

  Aug 1999 - Jan 2010

  Network Administrator

  Network Administrator for small, private, woman-owned business. Maintain local computer network, server, and Exchange Mail services.

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  Celestica

  Sept 2000 - Sept 2001

  Quality Engineer

  Production and Quality System quality assurance over two (2) production facilities.

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  Telco Solutions III

  Sept 2001 - Jun 2002

  Assistant Quality Manager/Engineer

  In my managerial role in the electronics sector, I spearheaded medium-volume contract manufacturing, specializing in SMT/PTH PCB assemblies and electromechanical devices within the ISO-9001:2000 framework. Recognized as a notable Tier 2 supplier in the automotive industry, I led a team of 10 quality inspectors, enhancing their skill set and upholding stringent product inspection standards. I facilitated a seamless transition to the updated ISO-9001:2000 revision, fortifying quality system integrity through comprehensive initiatives. I implemented tailored quality protocols in line with IPC Standard v6.10.C to meet the standards of prestigious clients, while adhering to critical international safety benchmarks. Additionally, I introduced innovative in-house calibration techniques and managed product PPAP and Process FMEA, ensuring optimal accuracy and client satisfaction in every endeavor. Show less

• 

  Lochinvar, LLC

  Sept 2002 - now

  As a pivotal member of the senior leadership team at a central corporate headquarters, I have spearheaded notable advancements in the high-mix, medium volume manufacturing realm within the Consumer and Commercial Goods sectors. With a specific focus on the gas-fired appliances and storage tank industries, I have adeptly navigated the transition to incorporate commercial heat pumps and electric boilers/water heaters into our product portfolio, aligning with the burgeoning market trends towards electrification and decarbonization. Since being promoted to the leadership team in 2017, I have played a crucial role in steering key company strategies and decisions, managing a vast monthly OpEx budget of $30.1M with financial acumen and overseeing a $5M headcount budget to secure and nurture top-tier talent. My dynamic leadership, which harmonizes a team of up to 123 professionals, solidifies my position as one of the four key directors actively shaping our company's prosperous trajectory alongside a select cadre of esteemed executives. Show less In my role at the helm of the Quality Assurance department, I transitioned the organization to an ISO-centric culture, enhancing departmental efficiency and staff capabilities across 2 plants. I vigilantly upheld compliance with a range of industry standards including UL, CSA, and ASME, steering the introduction of a structured Product Development System that encompassed the integration of innovative in-house calibration methods and advanced FMEAPro software for FMEAs. I also established a robust supplier oversight mechanism, leveraging certification systems and rigorous audits for both domestic and international partners. Additionally, I led significant cost-cutting initiatives, saving $150K annually, and managed a forward-thinking 3-year quality plan with a $700K budget. My efforts in digital transformation streamlined quality management processes by eliminating paper documentation, complemented by my active contribution to the Corporate Safety Council and Committee. Show less

  • Director of QA and Product Services

    Sept 2002 - now

  • Quality Assurance Manager

    Sept 2002 - Aug 2012
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  A.O. Smith

  Aug 2012 - Jan 2017

  IT Manager / IT Services and Data Center Operations Manager

  Between 2012 and 2014, I served in a pivotal role at the Local Business Unit, eventually transitioning to a position of corporate oversight from 2014 to 2017. In this capacity, I successfully managed a team of over 24 remote staff, adeptly coordinating operations across 11 North American facilities. I played a significant role in the 2014-2015 rollout of the new company-wide SAP ERP system, showcasing my proficiency in implementing sophisticated technological solutions. Additionally, I emerged as an integral member of the leadership team, actively contributing to the formation of AO Smith's inaugural global shared services department, later rebranded as Business & Technology Solutions (BTS), cementing my status as a key player in the company's evolutionary trajectory. Show less