Paul Garrett
Felixstowe,Suffolk
Summary
I am a motivated and versatile professional with a diverse background spanning the printing, tiling, and manufacturing industries. With qualifications such as an NVQ Level 2 in Wall & Floor Tiling and City & Guilds certifications, I bring hands-on expertise and a strong work ethic to every role I take on. My career has taken me from operating lithographic printing machines to maintaining and repairing robots and serving as a skilled filling operative at AkzoNobel, where I have been recognised for my adaptability, technical proficiency, and commitment to quality. I am known for my strong communication skills, proactive problem-solving, and ability to thrive in fast-paced environments. I am fully trained in forklift operation and experienced in troubleshooting complex machinery, helping to improve operational efficiency and team performance wherever I work. Outside of work, I lead an active lifestyle with interests in sports, fishing, motorsports, and family activities. I am also a keen photographer and videographer, bringing creativity and attention to detail to both my professional and personal pursuits.
Overview
37
37
years of professional experience
Work history
Filling Operator/Operator Maintainer/Process Maintainer
Akzonobel
Suffolk
01.2011 - 03.2026
- Recognised by management for rapid learning and adaptability, achieving full training and competency as both an operator and trainer across five complex filling lines. Demonstrated strong technical aptitude and leadership in a high-paced manufacturing environment.
- Key Achievements:
- Selected to join AkzoNobel's “Learning Team” to support employee engagement and improve understanding of the Viewpoint survey process.
- Consistently met or exceeded performance targets while minimising downtime through proactive troubleshooting and collaboration with engineering and management teams.
- Trained colleagues in Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) procedures, ensuring consistent standards and operational continuity across shifts.
- Core Responsibilities:
- Operated and set up automated filling lines, including configuration of palletisers, labellers, and associated equipment.
- Conducted quality checks on paint samples and managed wash-up procedures, filter cleaning, and mixer connections.
- Troubleshot and resolved issues with labellers, denesters, stretch/hood wrappers, pallet de-stackers, and filling lines.
- Performed TPM tasks twice daily to enhance equipment reliability and reduce unplanned downtime.
- Supervised and redeployed team members during downtime to maintain productivity through cleaning and minor maintenance tasks.
- Attended daily cross-functional meetings with operations, engineering, planning, and HSE teams to align on priorities and resolve site-wide issues.
- Actively contributed to performance improvement initiatives via the performance gap report process, often serving as the first point of contact for equipment issues.
- Technical Skills:
- Proficient in computer systems and software used in production environments, accelerating training and improving operational efficiency.
- Fully trained forklift operator, regularly responsible for site-wide forklift operations.
Self Employed Tiler
Tile Installation Services
Suffolk
01.2008 - 01.2011
- Established and managed a successful sole trader business following completion of an intensive wall and floor tiling course.
- Delivered high-quality installation of wall and floor tiles, including all preparation work, application of tanking systems, and installation of under-tile heating.
- Oversaw full bathroom and kitchen renovations, coordinating with trusted tradespeople and managing project timelines to ensure seamless execution.
- Maintained clear communication with clients and contractors to ensure work was completed in the correct sequence, on time, and to the highest standards.
- Handled all aspects of business operations, including:
- Marketing and promoting services
- Client relationship management
- Financial administration using IT systems for invoicing and accounts
- Built a reputation for reliability, attention to detail, and exceptional craftsmanship.
Lithographic Machine Printer
Fuller Davies Limited
Suffolk
01.2008
- Operated the latest Heidelberg and Roland press technology to produce high-quality print work in a fast-paced, quality-driven environment.
- Ensured all printed materials met customer specifications and expectations through meticulous setup and quality checks before full production.
- Applied strong time management and problem-solving skills to help the press room prioritize tasks and allocate resources effectively.
- Played a key role in minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency by identifying and resolving potential issues early in the print process.
- Trusted for input on balancing production priorities, contributing to smooth workflow and high customer satisfaction.
- Responsible for regular preventative and on-the-job maintenance of printing presses, ensuring optimal performance and equipment longevity.
Lead Lithographic Machine Printer
DNA Printing Solutions
Suffolk
01.2003 - 01.2008
- Led press operations on 5 and 6 colour Komori Lithrone sheet-fed presses, playing a key role in building customer confidence and supporting the growth of a new start-up business.
- Contributed to the development of quality control procedures and efficient pressroom workflows to maximize output and maintain high production standards.
- Assisted in preventative maintenance of equipment to ensure consistent performance and reduce downtime.
- Engaged directly with clients during Press Pass sessions, guiding them through the production process and ensuring their specifications were met.
- Demonstrated strong commitment and attention to detail in producing both short and long print runs, helping to establish a loyal customer base.
- Instrumental in the company's recognition as Runner-Up in the “Start-Up Company of the Year Awards” in East Anglia, driven by high-quality output and customer satisfaction.
Lithographic Machine Printer
MSL Design and Print
Long Stratton, Norfolk
01.2001 - 01.2003
Technician and Technical Operative
Agilent Technologies (Formerly Hewlett Packard)
Suffolk
01.1994 - 01.2001
Trainee Lithographic Machine Printer
Lever Press Limited
Suffolk
01.1989 - 01.1994
Education
NVQ Level 2 Part 1 - Wall & Floor Tiling
Construction Awards Alliance (alliance of CSkills Awards and City & Guilds)
Specialist Training Course - Wall & Floor Tiling Course
Harlow, EssexCity & Guilds 524 - Lithographic Machine Printing & Skilled Production Workers Certificate
Anglia Polytechnic
Cambridge, CambridgeshireWestbourne High School
Ipswich, SuffolkCertified Counterbalance Forklift Truck Operator -
Skills
- Logistical understanding
- Forklift certification
- Equipment Maintenance
- Safety compliance
- Process Improvement
- First-line maintenance checks
- Quality control inspections
- Machine operation
- Materials handling
- Manual dexterity
- Production work
- Planned Preventative Maintenance
- Machine setup
- Safety adherence
- Efficient delegation
- Employee management
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Filling Operator/Operator Maintainer/Process Maintainer
Akzonobel
01.2011 - 03.2026
Self Employed Tiler
Tile Installation Services
01.2008 - 01.2011
Lithographic Machine Printer
Fuller Davies Limited
01.2008
Lead Lithographic Machine Printer
DNA Printing Solutions
01.2003 - 01.2008
Lithographic Machine Printer
MSL Design and Print
01.2001 - 01.2003
Technician and Technical Operative
Agilent Technologies (Formerly Hewlett Packard)
01.1994 - 01.2001
Trainee Lithographic Machine Printer
Lever Press Limited
01.1989 - 01.1994
NVQ Level 2 Part 1 - Wall & Floor Tiling
Construction Awards Alliance (alliance of CSkills Awards and City & Guilds)
Specialist Training Course - Wall & Floor Tiling Course
City & Guilds 524 - Lithographic Machine Printing & Skilled Production Workers Certificate
Anglia Polytechnic
Westbourne High School