Paul Perera

Risk management is essential when clients push for faster & cheaper manufacturing. In my experience, when a client pressured us to release risk in a project by taking a shortcut, which clearly increased the risk, it was crucial to address this head-on. We organized a joint contingency session with the client, where we collaboratively developed alternative scenarios. These scenarios allowed us to meet the client’s objectives without increasing safety exposure. By involving the client in this process, they were able to see the value in maintaining safety standards while still achieving their goals. Conducting regular risk assessments & being proactive in planning for various scenarios ensures that safety remains a priority,even under pressure

Investing in technology can be a game-changer for balancing speed, cost, and safety in manufacturing. Automation and advanced machinery can perform tasks more quickly and with greater precision than manual labor, reducing the risk of human error. While upfront costs may be higher, the long-term benefits of improved safety and efficiency can justify the investment. Always ensure that staff are adequately trained to work with new technologies safely.

To accommodate client demands without compromising safety, focus on improving process efficiency. Evaluate your manufacturing processes to identify bottlenecks or wasteful steps that can be streamlined. Implementing lean manufacturing principles can help in reducing waste and increasing productivity without risking safety. Remember that efficiency gains should be sustainable and not come at the expense of rigorous safety checks or thorough quality control.

1. Set Clear Safety Standards: From the outset, establish and communicate non-negotiable safety standards. Ensure that these are well-documented and form part of your contracts or agreements with the client. 2. Educate and Align with the Client: Educate your client on the critical importance of safety. Explain how cutting corners on safety can lead to long-term costs far exceeding the immediate savings, such as through accidents, legal liabilities, or damage to reputation.

By maintaining a firm but cooperative stance on safety, you can work with your clients to find solutions that satisfy their needs without risking the integrity of your manufacturing processes

I have learned that fostering a diversity of thinking & encouraging creativity is crucial for leading R&D efforts that can break new ground in aerospace technology. Whether developing new propulsion systems or exploring unmanned aerial vehicles, this approach can open up new markets & revenue streams. Encouraging a culture of innovation within the team attracts top talent and partnerships and keeps us at the forefront of industry advancements. However, it is equally important to stay aware of stringent safety and regulatory requirements. Balancing creativity with adherence to these regulations allows us to push boundaries while maintaining the highest standards of safety & compliance. Working with a diverse ecosystem including SMEs is key.