Hawkins Watts NZ isn’t your typical ingredient supplier. The company provides bespoke blended products and innovative development work to create tailored solutions for its customers.
“At Hawkins Watts, we’re proud to have achieved BRCGS Certification at the AA level. This accomplishment isn’t just the work of a single quality manager, it’s a testament to the dedication and teamwork across our entire organisation. Teamwork truly makes the dream work,” says Craig Cooper, group quality manager.
Every day at Hawkins Watts starts with a triage exercise, where the quality team reviews the day’s priorities. Inputs to the meeting come from customer requests, quality control testing, and any issues that could impact the ability to fulfil customer orders. Risk assessment and prioritisation are key, and Cooper says, “we adjust our planned work accordingly to maintain our AA grade standards”.
“We’re lucky to have over 50% of our total company staff trained in technical areas, so when needed, they can support us with activities like internal auditing, quality control and customer queries. With the team aligned and tasks in motion, our focus shifts to continuous improvement work,” says Cooper.
Supporting the operations team through various ‘Gemba’ exercises is one example.
“Led by our production manager, we ‘observe with purpose’ specific areas of operations such as our dedicated allergen, halal storage, or quarantine areas. This process involves someone who performs the work and considers feedback from audits, customer input, and ideas from our reward and recognition system.”
Nothing happens in isolation at Hawkins Watts; it’s through teamwork and diversity of thought that drives continuous improvement.
“Together, we always ensure the highest standards of quality and safety in everything we do,” says Cooper. “Contact us to learn more about our creative ingredient solutions and how we can help streamline your manufacturing processes.”
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