Richard Garthwaite

Took time off to care for my wife doing a long illiness that is now cured

Directed all operations of this family owned plastic extrusion business. Tasked with returning company to profitability and locating a buyer. Found European buyer but family decided to maintain ownership with next generation running the operation. Managed six staff and $25M budget.

Led manufacturing to improve productivity for $75M organization. Worked with marketing and R&D teams to develop new product opportunities. Continually reviewed company structure looking for cost savings. Returned CFC Europe to profitability by rationalizing product line, closing redundant operations, and reducing headcount from 191 to 133. Improved R&D productivity resulting in several major new product introductions. Implemented system to ensure only viable projects received attention. Integrated US and Eu

Upgraded management staff, including CFO and VP of Marketing & Sales. Implemented national field sales force. Hired product development manager to move the company into more specialized, higher margin products. Brought in new VP manufacturing to develop new methodology and improve productivity. Secured acquisition and joint ventures to broaden product line. Created completely new marketing and sales group that focused on working with distributor partners to grow market for extruded stock shapes. Increased s

Directed $60M autonomous division involved in developing, manufacturing and marketing specialty acrylic sheet. Managed operations of three plants (union and non-union) with 550 employees. Doubled profits through productivity improvement, new product development and increased focus on customer responsiveness