Celebrating our people
August marks an incredible milestone for one of B&R’s longest standing employees, Doug Searle.
The year was 1983, a time of shoulder pads, Crocodile Dundee and big hair. A young, fresh-faced Doug convinced Bob Bridges that he was the man for the job and the rest, as they say, is history.
Starting off as a toolmaker for the research and development division at the B&R Wingfield plastics division, Doug’s thirst for knowledge, diligence and problem-solving skills did not go unnoticed and he quickly moved through the B&R ranks.
From tool maker to toolroom supervisor on to manufacturing services manager and now Wingfield’s plant manager, Doug has seen it all.
Throughout his four-decade long tenure, Doug has witnessed B&R go from strength to strength, adapting to an ever-changing market and continually evolving technologies. He has been a constant presence, providing invaluable direction, support and guidance. The impact he has made within B&R cannot be overstated.
As we celebrate Doug’s remarkable 40-year journey with B&R, we acknowledge his unwavering loyalty and dedication. His contributions have played a pivotal role in shaping the success and growth of B&R. In an era where job hopping is a norm, Doug’s commitment is a testament to his character and work ethic.
If you ever find yourself in Adelaide be sure to request Doug’s world-famous B&R factory tour - the simple process of manufacturing electrical enclosures could turn into a seven-hour odyssey with more plot twists than Home & Away!
Q&A with Doug
What have you loved about working for B&R? The challenges and being able to “have a go” and make a difference.
Other than reaching this incredible milestone, what has been your biggest accomplishment at B&R? The major Manufacturing Improvement project in Adelaide in 2000. This project came out of a B&R Strategy planning workshop, with the target to lift manufacturing efficiency by 5% from 88%. We worked with the SA Manufacturing Centre, Byron Burridge & team, to completely re-lay out the SA factory, encompassing best practice Automotive and Whitegoods and Lean Manufacturing principles. After one year of implementation we had well exceeded our 5% target and were consistently achieving well in excess of 100%.
Any advice to new starters or anyone considering a career at B&R?
- Hang on for the ride and make the most of what B&R has to offer.
- Invest in your own career through external education, along with internal opportunities to learn.
What is your favourite pastime? Anything to do with cars, boats, waterskiing, motorbikes and caravanning.
Over the past 40 years Doug has seen so many pass through the doors of B&R. We asked fellow B&R legends to share a few words about Doug:
It’s never just a few words with Doug! - Mark Gosper
Doug is an exceptional leader who seamlessly blends advanced technical expertise with genuine care and empathy for people. - Kimberley Davis
Stick to the dot points Doug! - Dan Bridges
Doug is a great advocate for training and safety and firmly stands up for what he believes in. Even-tempered (you will never see Doug get riled up!) a good listener, loves a chat and his "open-door" policy is widely admired and respected by all those around him. – Sharon Bailey
Doug has consistently shown a can-do attitude and has been incredibly helpful. He's always ready to tackle any issue, regardless of its size. Thank you, Doug, for your invaluable assistance. - Barry Walker
I’m so thankful Doug gave me the opportunity to work at B&R and for sticking by me throughout my journey so far (21 years later!) Doug is a great people person, he is welcoming, engaging and truly caring. Doug is proactive and always works to an agenda. Doug is powered throughout the day by two teabag cups of tea and a lunch box full of rabbit food. He is not only a great colleague but an amazing friend and does a very fine job of managing what he calls it “a sausage factory”. - Davin Natt
