Starting a career as a Production Supervisor offers a unique blend of technical challenges, leadership development, and opportunities for progression. At Nowchem, this role is often a gateway to greater responsibilities, as demonstrated by Alan Barnes’s career journey from Production Supervisor to Operations Manager.
Alan grew up in Newcastle and graduated as a Chemical Engineer from Newcastle University. His career began in the paper-making industry, where he worked for many years in process engineering and management across regional towns. Eight years ago, Alan joined Nowchem as a Production Supervisor, and three years ago, he stepped into the senior role of Operations Manager, highlighting the opportunities for growth within the company.
Reflecting on his career, Alan identifies two key skills that have been central to his success: attention to detail and the ability to work with people. “Attention to detail is critical,” he says, emphasising how crucial it is to ensure smooth, safe production processes. But just as important, he notes, is the ability to lead a team effectively. “You need to be able to work with people in any role, but as a supervisor, it’s even more important. You’ve got to be able to listen to others.”
The Production Line Supervisor role at Nowchem requires a balance of technical skills and a strong focus on safety, but Alan emphasises that working well with people is paramount. “Engagement of people is the most important thing. You can have all the good systems you like, but if people aren’t engaged, then you have a problem.” Effective leadership is about motivating and supporting the team, not just pushing them to meet targets. “You need to work with the team to set targets that won’t stress them out, as that’s counterproductive.”
Alan also stresses the importance of empathy and what he calls the “care factor.” A good supervisor must genuinely care about their team’s well-being. Building strong relationships is crucial, as this fosters an environment where everyone can thrive. “There’s always lots to learn,” he says, emphasising that developing both technical expertise and interpersonal skills is key to long-term success.
Alan’s progression reflects Nowchem’s commitment to fostering career development. The role of a Production Line Supervisor offers more than just immediate responsibility – it’s an opportunity for career growth within a company that values leadership and people engagement. “You need to lead people, not drag them along,” Alan says, underscoring the importance of guiding a team with care and attention.
For anyone considering a career at Nowchem, the Production Line Supervisor role is a great stepping stone. With the right blend of technical and people skills, this position can open doors to senior management, just as it did for Alan. At Nowchem, career progression is not just possible, it’s encouraged, making it an ideal place for those looking to build a fulfilling career.
