Benson Group People

October 2009

Chris Jones - Supply Chain Manager, North

As Supply Chain Manager for Benson Group's north-east production factories, Chris Jones's role is both varied and demanding. The role is also critical to the operation of carton production at Benson's North-East factories. "The job is effectively the start and finish of the production process," says Chris, as it involves direct responsibility for the internal sales department, the commercial department, including purchasing and the supply of board, as well as warehousing and distribution of the finished product.

Chris works extremely closely with the production and planning teams to help ensure that goods are delivered on time and to provide what the business describes as "on time, in full" service to the customer base.

Undoubtedly the role is extremely challenging. The highlights for 2009 so far for Chris include the new computer system at Gateshead, and the recent arrival of the new Komori press. "During 2009 we have rolled out a new computer system at Gateshead. As is typical with almost any computer installation, we had a few early teething problems, but the system now provides a real-time, updated stock information service to customers and to the Benson sales team.

"The installation of the new high-speed Komori LSX - the first press of its type in Europe - was probably the most exciting challenge of the year, and it is great to see the new machine now fully installed and printing top quality cartons. This new high-speed press is giving us the additional capacity that is needed to be able to respond when called upon by the ever changing market place and short lead time ordering patterns."

Closely associated with the new press, Chris is currently involved in compiling a feasibility study to install state-of-the-art warehouse racking with barcode scanning control for all raw materials and finished goods. The prime aim of this project is to enhance the speed of handling and delivery of materials to the production area.

Future projects for Chris are likely to examine external storage networks, which would allow the company to be closer to its customers, and offer the potential for it to promote "just in time" supply.

Chris joined PDG back in February 1993 as a sales administrator, having previously worked for Fine Art Group (Bradford), manufacturers of greeting cards, printed gift-wrap, tags, and ribbons. In that role he had purchased packaging from PDG, which established his connection with the company.

He was promoted to Sales Office Manager 1995 and then to Commercial Manager in 2000, moving onto senior management team in 2004. His significant involvement during PDG's serious fire of that year has served him well in terms of understanding the mechanics of supply and how to solve problems that appear from "left field".

The purchase of both PDG and near neighbour Integrated Packaging by Benson Group has created a major packaging manufacturing business in the north-east of the country, and Chris's current role covers both factories.

Outside of business hours, Chris is a big sports fan, being both a regular spectator at Newcastle United, and, in the summer, chairman of his local cricket club, where he has been involved in both playing and officiating for the past 27 years. Chris has a 10 year old daughter who he describes as a bundle of energy and fun, and who is currently giving him a run for his money playing garden cricket!