Chemical processing company Exwold Technology has been working with Teesside University to enhance operational and process efficiencies and prepare for future growth.
The Hartlepool-based firm works with chemical and agrochemical companies worldwide to develop manufacturing solutions and long term client relationships.
While working on a global level, Exwold sought assistance from Teesside University to select and implement a new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. An ERP system integrates information across an entire company, ensuring it flows across the organisation’s business functions.
Work to integrate the ERP has involved a two-year KTP (Knowledge Transfer Partnership) with Teesside University. Pablo Gonzalez Olalla, who is originally from Spain, has been involved as KTP associate to implement the ERP system.
Since starting the KTP, Pablo has been offered a permanent role with Exwold as Continuous Improvement Leader. He said: 'The ERP is ensuring more effective planning and enabling production of efficient management reports in real time to allow for more accurate decision-making.'
Having completed a business management degree in his native Spain before moving to Lancashire to continue his studies, Pablo said: 'I heard about the KTP with Teesside University at a jobs fair after completing my master’s degree. The support received from Teesside University has been key to the success of this project. We wouldn’t have the same outcome without their generous support.'
Pablo, who recently won the North East of England Process Industry Cluster Young Achiever 2012 Award, added: 'The KTP has been a life changing experience, helping me to develop my skills and knowledge as well as enhancing my career opportunities.'
Academic support was provided by Teesside University through Dr Ruben Pinedo-Cuenca, of the University’s industry support unit Teesside Manufacturing Centre (TMC) and project manager in the School of Science & Engineering.
He said: 'This project has contributed to the enhancement of Exwold’s operational performance as well as helping to prepare the company for future growth. We have worked with them on other projects and they are really pleased with the outcome.'
Kevin Martin, Exwold managing director, said: 'The partnership between Pablo as the KTP associate, Exwold and Teesside University has worked very well. We are confident that the project has placed the company in a much stronger position to create significant growth. In addition to this, our links with Teesside University have strengthened and continue the relationship.'
He added: 'Everyone at Exwold has long appreciated Pablo's contribution to the business and we were delighted to see his efforts acknowledged through the NEPIC Award.'
This KTP is the third project which Teesside University has been involved in with the company, which is expanding into a new location at Wilton. Operating from three manufacturing sites, Exwold has around 65 staff, with over 50 clients across a variety of industries around the world.