With over 17 years of Aluminium Fabrication experience Tiago Reis or ‘Tig’ as he’s known by many colleagues recently found a few minutes to provide an insight into his working ‘world’. Alongside his current responsibility for stock control, Tig supports our Aluminium Manufacturing facilities with his wealth of technical knowledge and practical experience and it’s fair to say he is a key member of the TRADELINK Team.

What is your current role at TRADELINK?

I’ve been involved with Aluminium production for a large part of my working life and had a number of senior roles picking up a lot of experience in many areas of production throughout my career. My current role is Materials Team Leader, the responsibility for Stock Control is certainly made easier with my background product knowledge.

What motivates you to wake up and go to work?

I have to say, that every day brings a new set of challenges, and being able to provide practical solutions is key. We have a great factory team and being a ‘go-to’ person is really rewarding. In addition, my experience quite often involves providing technical assistance to our customers and It’s always a pleasure to help.

What has changed most at TRADELINK post lockdown?

My current role controlling stock. Right now we recognise that the supply chain is under significant pressure, and this situation has to be managed with much greater levels of forward planning and communication with the shop floor.

What is the most demanding part of your current role?

As mentioned previously, the last minute ‘surprises’ from suppliers particularly shortages require close monitoring to avoid delays to orders and factory disruption.

What has been your favourite project so far?

Since undertaking the responsibility for Aluminium stock control, I have created a robust, manageable system which operates effectively. It is easy for other team members to understand and has significantly saved money through reduced stockholding.

What is the best thing about your job?

I work closely with our Factory Team Leader and playing a key part in keeping the wheels turning smoothly is most satisfying.

What is something that most people don’t know about you?

I joined TRADELINK at the time of their Aluminium acquisition and production launch, bringing with me the years of fabrication experience I had gained during its previous ownership and years prior to that.

And lastly, Who inspires you and Why?

All credit to my father! Back at home in Portugal my father is a builder, he built us a house to live in and has given me my practical approach and many skills.

A big THANK-YOU to Tiago from all the Team at TRADELINK