Episode 97
How to Overcome Key Challenges in Expanding Manufacturing Operations Across Borders
Gain Insightful Strategies for Navigating Global Leadership and Team Dynamics
Join host Sannah Vinding and guest Terry Arbaugh, Chief Commercial Officer at SEACOMP and an expert in electronics contract manufacturing, as they discuss valuable strategies for scaling operations across multiple countries. In this podcast, you’ll discover how to effectively navigate the challenges of leadership in a diverse environment.
In this episode, you will discover:
- The Human Element in Scaling: Understand why personal events and people pose the most significant challenges in scaling a business and how to navigate these obstacles.
- Leadership Qualities for Success: Learn what makes a good leader and how to create a comfortable environment where team members feel encouraged to seek advice and guidance.
- Strategies for Global Team Dynamics: Gain insights into managing distributed workforces, dealing with time zones, language barriers, and embracing cultural differences.
- Setting Up Operations in Mexico: Explore the complexities and strategic benefits of expanding operations to Mexico, including onboarding processes and employee sustainability.
- Continuous Improvement and Learning: Hear about Terry’s commitment to learning from past experiences and continuously improving processes and communication.
- Open Dialogue and Cultural Connections: Discover the importance of fostering open dialogue and personal connections within a team to create a supportive and collaborative company culture.
- Challenges of Relocating Manufacturing: Delve into the intricacies of moving operations outside China, including the decision-making process and navigating geopolitical and logistical challenges.
- Reflections and Leadership Skills: Reflect on the essential leadership skills such as vision casting, transparent communication, and the importance of explaining the context behind decisions.
Terry’s thoughtful approach to leadership and his dedication to cultivating a positive company culture will equip you with practical strategies to tackle the dynamic challenges of the manufacturing industry.
Tune in to gain actionable insights and elevate your leadership and operational strategies to the next level.
“Scaling a business is never just about the numbers; it’s about the people. The biggest challenges we face aren’t metrics or KPIs, but the personal events and interactions that define our team dynamics.”
Key takeaways
Importance of Personal Connections in Leadership:
Terry Arbaugh emphasized that the most challenging aspect of scaling manufacturing operations is dealing with people and personal events. A good leader is someone who fosters a comfortable environment where team members feel free to seek advice and guidance. Arbaugh shared that the personal touch is crucial in creating a positive company culture and ensuring smooth team dynamics, especially during scaling.
Strategies for Managing Global Operations:
The conversation shed light on the complexities of managing distributed workforces across different time zones, languages, and cultural norms. Terry discussed SEACOMP’s approach to scaling operations internationally, including the integration of systems and supply chain logistics, with an example of setting up a new factory in Tijuana, Mexico. Factors like living arrangements, transportation, and shift timings were considered to ensure sustainable growth and a balanced work-life for employees.
Continuous Learning and Reflection for Operational Improvement:
Both speakers highlighted the importance of continuous learning and reflection in leadership. Terry shared his passion for staying informed through podcasts, articles, and industry conversations. He also discussed the value of reflecting on lessons learned from past experiences to improve processes and communication strategies. This continuous cycle of learning and improvement is crucial for navigating challenges and achieving operational efficiency in the electronics manufacturing industry.
“Your insights on embracing transparency and reflecting on past experiences underscore the ongoing journey of leadership—it’s about continuous learning and adapting to new challenges.“
Navigating Global Leadership
Show Notes:
In Episode 97 of the “Leadership in Manufacturing Podcast,” host Sannah Vinding engages with Terry Arbaugh, the CCO of SEACOMP, in an enlightening discussion on the intricacies of scaling manufacturing operations, particularly within the electronics industry.
Key highlights from their conversation include Terry’s observations on the paramount importance of people and personal events as the most challenging aspects of business scaling. He underscores that a good leader is someone who creates an environment where people feel comfortable seeking advice and guidance, fostering a supportive company culture.
The episode delves into strategies for navigating global leadership complexities, including managing distributed workforces, bridging time zones and language barriers, and embracing cultural differences. Terry shares his passion for the electronics manufacturing industry, illustrating how innovation drives the team’s enthusiasm.
Notably, SEACOMP’s expansion into Tijuana, Mexico, comes under the spotlight, with Terry explaining the logistical and cultural challenges of integrating this new operation with existing facilities in San Diego and China. He speaks to the intricacies of mirroring the setup in China to facilitate a smooth production transition and discusses the onboarding process for new employees in Mexico, emphasizing sustainable living arrangements and work-life balance.
The discussion also addresses the need for personal connections and proactive communication within the company’s culture, advocating for continuous learning from past experiences to avoid repeating mistakes. Terry provides valuable insights into leadership, stressing the importance of context in communication and the role of intuition.
Reflecting on his career, Terry offers advice for his younger self, highlighting the critical importance of clear communication and intuitive decision-making. He also shares insights on balancing the challenges of operating outside of China, pointing out Tijuana’s advantages for manufacturing larger products and the strategic considerations for choosing between Mexico and China.
Both Sannah and Terry emphasize the importance of celebrating diversity within the company while finding common ground to foster teamwork. They advocate for transparent communication and proactive planning to navigate challenging situations in the manufacturing and supply chain industry.
Throughout the episode, Terry acknowledges the crucial role of the local Tijuana manager, attributing the plant’s success to their prior experience. He concludes by emphasizing the value of personal connections in professional relationships and the enjoyment derived from engaging in challenging situations.
Remember to subscribe, like, and share our podcast. Connect with us on LinkedIn, YouTube, and Instagram to unlock your leadership potential in the electronics component industry.
Terry Arbaugh
Terry Arbaugh
Chief Commercial Officer, at SEACOMP
Terry Arbaugh is a seasoned expert in electronics contract manufacturing and new product introduction strategies, with over 13 years of experience at SEACOMP. As Chief Commercial Officer, Terry leads business development, contract negotiation, and supply chain management, driving growth and innovation within the organization.
With a background in International Relations and Political Science from Pepperdine University, Terry leverages his diverse skill set to help companies navigate the complexities of hardware development. He specializes in consulting on innovative strategies that enable clients to launch their products on time and within budget.
Throughout his career, Terry has held various leadership roles, including Vice President of Sales & Marketing at SEACOMP and Displaytech, where he managed sales channels and developed marketing strategies for advanced electronic components. He has a proven track record of fostering strong client relationships and facilitating successful product launches.
“A good leader is someone who makes people comfortable enough to seek their advice and guidance. It’s about creating an environment where open dialogue is encouraged and everyone feels valued.”
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