Retained to develop the manufacturing infrastructure of this tile company including product diversification, and utilisation of indigenous minerals. Training needs assessments and training of operatives in processing and manufacturing techniques to improve quality and reduce losses.

Dominican Republic.

Formulation of a Bankable financial, technical and commercial feasibility study for the proposed expansion and diversification of a ceramic manufacturing company in Santa Domingo.

Dominican Republic.

Project co-ordinator for the development of three factories: 1 x floor / roof and wall tiles, 1 x large earthenware products, 1 x small ceramic enamel and pottery factory. Five missions discharged with others scheduled for the year 2000. Significant improvements in quality, and dramatic reductions in production losses has resulted in increased exportation and home consumption of the products from two of the factories.

Nairobi, Kenya

To formulate a multi-functional ceramic body from local minerals, capable of satisfying the diverse production processes associated with earthenware tableware, art ware and fine ceramic jewellery. This company employs disadvantaged single mothers and plays a significant role in the local economy, promoting employment, utilisation of natural resources and export trade through tourist business. In addition to the primary, successfully achieved objective, installation of capital equipment representing appropriate technology, and training in its operation was also carried out.

Nairobi, Kenya

Retained to further develop targeted ceramic manufacturing enterprises within the SME entrepreneurial sector, and to advise on assistance required to uplift the ceramic industry nation-wide. Specific reference to utilise local raw materials in earthenware, stone ware, electrical porcelain and other applications, five units involved. Further assistance under consideration.

Desk assignment.

Production of a guide on selected non metallic minerals, their origin and industrial applications. Objective to promote interest through CDI world-wide antenna, in the development of local industries utilising indigenous nmm resources.

Trinidad & Tobago.

Retained to explore the development potential of a kaolin processing enterprise, and to assess the technical and financial inputs required to institute the appropriate methodology to ensure an economically sound production process. Further work carried out in assisting local industries to manufacture once fired sanitaryware and bathroom accessories from mostly local raw materials.

Lesotho.

Principal task was to evaluate the proposed expansion from ceramic tiles into sanitaryware by the Lesotho National Development Council (LNDC) and a joint venture partner. This project being the largest single capital investment in the country. Detailed study of financial implications, technical review of raw materials and market survey in neighbouring RSA revealed significant information. The results of this mission are confidential but included re - negotiation of equity and other notable action to the benefit of LNDC.

Zambia.

To explore the possibility of developing small ceramic projects in the Lusaka area. The units were associated with Small Industrial Development Organisation (SIDO). A thorough appraisal of raw materials, skills of operatives, and the proposed business plans enabled appropriate action to be taken.

Mauritius, Indian Ocean.

Retained to re - structure Florychante Ltd. a medium sized company producing ornamental ceramics and tableware. High losses and minimal basic ceramic technology were diminishing a potentially profitable operation. Five missions undertaken to date with further inputs under consideration. A thorough analysis and solution to the numerous raw material, production, glazing firing and marketing difficulties have resulted in dramatic improvements in quality and cash flow, with new markets in RSA being secured. Additional capital equipment was imported with commissioning and training programs implemented.

Jordan.

Three by one month missions (approx.) to develop a SME ceramic craft and art factory employing disabled / disadvantaged persons. Low productivity and poor quality were undermining the viability of the unit. As a direct result of the intervention new kilns and production equipment was installed, new procedures established and eventually a new factory was commissioned. This project was under Royal patronage within the Queen Alia Social Welfare Fund.

Syria.

Retained by UNIDO on a three month mission to solve numerous technical and production problems encountered by the country's' largest tile and sanitaryware factory at HAMA, northern Syria. As a result of the mission key operatives were exposed to European production techniques, new ceramic glazes were produced from local materials (feldspars etc.). Adjustments to the ceramic body recipe and production methods resulted in significant economic advantage to the company.

Nigeria.

Work carried out to establish the feasibility of a tableware manufacturing factory. Extensive travel within Nigeria, collection and analysis of raw materials via a UK University, and travel within Europe to evaluate tenders for equipment supplies.

Ceramic Industries (EA) Ltd. Nairobi, Kenya.

Technical and works manager on a four year contract. Responsible for the direction of three factories: tiles, tableware and sanitaryware. Commissioned the sanitaryware factory which had never produced. A mixture of 'hands on' training by example and the phased introduction of ceramic technology to all the divisions. A difficult and challenging appointment with the eventual result being exportation of products to neighbouring Uganda and Tanzania.

Cerama Tiles, Norton, Zimbabwe.

Works Manager - Director.

Re - commissioned a wall and floor tile factory that had closed during the war of independence. Diversified into tableware utilising 100% local materials for body preparation. Responsible for re - establishing the production process, hiring and training of staff from the military cadres. Resulting in expansion and eventual exportation of goods to Mozambique. Exploratory mission to Mozambique to negotiate a possible joint venture.

Ceramica Carabobo, Venezuela.

Employed as ceramic technician in a large tableware factory. Identification and solution of major technical and manufacturing problems within the clay production, glazing and firing departments. A three year contract prematurely terminated due to family bereavement.

Moore Pottery Ltd. Lusaka, Zambia.

Works Manager responsible for every operation on a small but busy manufacturing unit, producing a wide range of tableware, artistic giftware and low voltage ceramic insulators. Foreign exchange restrictions resulted in the substitution of local minerals for imported prepared clay bodies. Adjusted production process to accommodate new techniques, installed and commissioned new roller making machines, commissioned new printing equipment and kilns, devised and implemented training programs.

United Kingdom

Johnson - Wedgwood Group, Stoke - on - Trent, UK

During this time a firm foundation in strategic areas of ceramic manufacturing was laid down. Experience was gained in ceramic technology and raw material preparation, also the various production procedures, including firing, glazing decorating and quality control. As senior departmental manager key manufacturing departments were under my direct control.