I work with small and mid-sized companies to expand their business from local and domestic to international. I help them avoid costly mistakes in the import/export process.
As a manufacturing process consultant, I make sure that my clients receive their products from overseas suppliers according to specifications, within budget and on time. Like a movie’s executive producer, I stay “behind the scenes” as a facilitator and coordinator. From barbecues to baby clothes, from flatware to furniture – I work with importers on almost any kind of product. My clients already know their own fields. I help them adapt their knowledge to a global environment.
We all know that you have to ask the right questions to get the right answers. With my 25 years of experience in international trade, I know what to ask, how to ask and whom to ask! I also know how to give orders. I make sure that the entire process of producing and importing runs smoothly. With my help, clients anticipate and circumvent problems with vendors, trade regulations, and quality assurance. My clients take advantage of their best opportunities while avoiding costly mistakes.
By nature I am persistent, with a strong sense of ethics developed in the real world. Four years of combat experience with the U.S. Navy and many years as an adult advisor with the Boy Scouts of America have given me insights that help to coordinate people and streamline processes to achieve goals. Over a dozen years as a Chief Operations Officer in the houseware and hardware industry taught me to balance leadership with teamwork. In the complicated world of business manufacturing, I can see both the forest and the trees clearly – without losing perspective on either.
I help my clients achieve their international business goals the first time and every time. Together, we minimize aggravation, time and energy while we maximize profits and satisfaction over a job well done.
(1) Overall planning and assessment - Initial discussion: Does the client need to be in the global manufacturing arena? - Monitor the ongoing program - Assess and adjust as needed - Reflect on program after completion - Project future needs (2) Sourcing - Locate and negotiate with potential vendors on behalf of the client (3) Create production process - Advise clients on how to write purchase orders and specifications properly - Ensure they are asking for the right items (4) Quality control - Coordinate on behalf of client; identify issues that require examination - Secure inspection staff; instruct staff on what to look for (5) Packaging and preparation for shipping - Ensure items are properly packaged to minimize damage in transit (6) Logistics - Find the right carrier, freight forwarder, Customs broker - Assist process of getting through Customs - Interface between all of the above - Get products delivered to the client
- Importer, manufacturer, distributor, wholesaler - Annual sales of $3 million to $75 million - Established product lines - Existing business looking at possible new product lines
- Automotive - Hearth and patio - Home furnishings - Housewares - OEM parts – non-electronics industries - OTC health products - Specialty gifts - Others
