David O'Brien

Experience

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  ICI

  Jul 1990 - May 1996

  Research Scientist, ICI Surfactants

  As part of a multi-functional project team involving marketing, applications, production and technical streams, a range of new and novel cleaning chemicals were developed to meet specific market needs and applications. Strong project management and effective communication across the functional areas of the business involved in this long-term strategic project, ensured milestones were met and successful outcomes were achieved.

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  Orica

  Jun 1996 - Aug 2002

  This position was to manage the Technical Service activities of the Australian business as well as the associated short-term development programs from that service. It involved the management of a team of 6 professionals dedicated to the provision of technical and customer service to the industry. As the team leader I was responsible for providing challenging and obtainable goals in line with the market needs and strategy of the Adhesives business. This involved developing a skilled team and maintaining a high level of morale, enthusiasm and commitment. Show less

  • Account Manager, Adhesives & Resins, Australia

    Oct 2000 - Aug 2002

  • Technical Service Manager, Adhesives & Resins, Australia

    Jun 1996 - Sept 2000
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  Carter Holt Harvey Woodproducts Australia

  Sept 2002 - Apr 2019

  Primarily responsible for developing and delivering the technical strategy for the business across 5 production facilities; key supplier account management; managing (via dotted line) plant based technical managers and officers; mentoring and coaching site managers in a range of technical areas, including compliance. Principally responsible for developing and delivering the technical strategy for the business across 5 manufacturing facilities (producing approximately 600,000 m3 per year). Co-ordinating and monitoring all technical projects by completing the necessary requirements of design, investigation and reporting to achieve desired outcomes. Chiefly responsible for leading business wide process improvement programs aimed at reducing applied costs across 7 production facilities (producing approximately 800,000 m3 per year). Work with manufacturing sites, as well as chemical suppliers (resin, wax and additives) to identify and implement profit improvements. Manage work related consultants and ensure products continue to meet customer and regulatory requirements as productions cost were lowered. Responsible for identifying the performance claims and regulatory requirements (e.g. legislation, Building Code, Australian Standards) that applied to each product or product cluster produced by CHH, including manufacture carried out by contractors then developing and implementing an audit program for each product or product cluster. Regular reporting to CHH leadership and development and oversite of compliance improvement programs. As part of the facility management team, I led and mentored a team of 6, responsible for providing technical support to the factory’s operation and co-ordination of the health, safety and risk activities needed to meet legislative requirements. The role also included responsibility for quality systems, environmental, health, safety and risk objectives of the business, and employee welfare.

  • National Technical Manager, Pinepanels

    Jan 2013 - Apr 2019

  • National Technical Manager, Particleboard & Flooring

    May 2011 - Dec 2012

  • National Technical Manager, Panels

    Jul 2008 - Apr 2011

  • National Compliance Auditor

    Sept 2007 - Jun 2008

  • Technical Manager

    Sept 2002 - Aug 2007
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  DuluxGroup

  May 2019 - now

  Technical Manager - Cabot's