Vinod began his career at Heitkamp Und Thumann (S) Pte Ltd in 2002, where he was employed as a Production Toolmaker. After completing a three-months training program in deep drawing techniques, he was tasked with machine ownership in the shopfloor.

Being a Production Toolmaker was a whole new experience for him, having the opportunity to develop troubleshooting skills, patience, time management and close collaboration with the H&T global team.

Vinod is technically inclined and very committed to the team; he was soon tasked to oversee the production team. As a Supervisor, he had the privilege to work on many challenging projects and thus gained valuable project management skills. He worked on several global projects with the HTBA technical experts on Cans Cleaning and Graphite Coating. He also led all the equipment upgrading projects for the Cans Washer and Coaters in the Singapore plant.

In 2016, Vinod was promoted to Assistant Production Manager; in 2020, to Production Manager and in 2024, to Plant Manager.

The pandemic years through 2022 provided different insights to Vinod’s management skill and understood how a small mistake at the shopfloor could lead to significant impact on the financial performance of a plant.

Having worked in production management for more than four years now, I have gained greater experience in resource management, cost planning, and production budgeting. I was given more responsibility for overseeing the plant’s operations this year. I’m eager to pick up new abilities and supervise all plant activities in my new position as plant manager.

“My journey with H&T over the past 22 years has given me the opportunity to be with a diversified, well-motivated and supportive team. The management has always shown appreciation and support whenever we encounter any challenges. And many challenges are often transformed into opportunities to strengthen the resilience of our team. I am happy to be part of the H&T family.”

In 2000, Lars Witteler stepped into the vibrant world of H&T Tool Design. His journey kicks off with the intricate art of toolmaking for stamping and forming technologies. From the grind of the workshop to late-night shifts in the grinding area, Lars’s early experiences were more than just a job – they were the building blocks of an extraordinary career.

As the years danced forward, H&T’s focus sharpened on grinding capabilities, transforming tools into high-quality, ready-to-use marvels. Lars and the team elevated their craftsmanship from manual touch-ups to excellence, leaving an indelible mark on their commitment to quality. The impact of their work expanded beyond the workshop, reaching influential players, including renowned battery cell manufacturers. Lars’s career became a thrilling journey into uncharted territories.

Enter Lean Management – the spark that ignited innovation. Together, Lars and his team streamlined daily operations with optimized tool boards for each machine. Hungry for personal growth, Lars delved into an education as a state-certified technician for Mechanical Engineering. Subsequently pursuing a full-time study in Mechanical Engineering next to his work, Lars didn’t just learn; he applied knowledge in real-time projects within H&T.

Post-studies, Lars seamlessly transitioned into a Project Engineer role, the practical culmination of his newfound expertise. Balancing a master’s in business management, he assumed the role of Maintenance Manager, reshaping the operational landscape at H&T. The realm of H&T Excellence Workshops and Projects became a playground for innovation, focusing on Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) for a stable and consistently maintained production environment.

The surge in the rechargeable business at H&T heralded a new frontier – Development. Steering a small yet dynamic team, Lars ventured into uncharted territories. In 2019, he ascended to Production Manager, synchronizing with the introduction of team leaders per shift. This strategic shift streamlined reporting, fueled continuous development, and optimized resource allocation.

Fast forward to 2022 – a pivotal year. Lars embraced the role of Plant Manager, joining the Executive Management Team. Fresh challenges emerged, spurred by evolving customer demands post the COVID-19 pandemic. In a mere 1.5 years, a new opportunity surfaced – Global Technology Manager. A role tailor-made for Lars, focused on supporting and developing the global technical footprint, a testament to his knowledge and experience propelling H&T forward.

Reflecting on 24 years at H&T, Lars finds joy in the camaraderie, collaborative efforts, and unwavering support. Proud to be part of this narrative, he eagerly anticipates the future, remaining “Ambitious & Inspired” for new achievements. Lars’s story isn’t just about career milestones; it’s an ongoing saga of H&T’s growth, innovation, and the unwavering spirit of its people. Ready for the next chapter? So is Lars – let the journey continue!

Robert Xiong’s journey with HTD began in 2000 as a Technical Engineer, charting the course for tooling design and new projects. The evolution took shape in 2002 when he assumed the role of Maintenance Supervisor, focusing on cultivating operational efficiency. By 2006, Robert ascended to the role of Technical Manager, overseeing technical and maintenance operations with a meticulous focus on optimization.

In 2012, he embraced a pivotal challenge, transitioning into the role of Technical Services Manager. This transformative phase entrusted him with the oversight of technical, maintenance, and the toolroom, highlighting his leadership prowess. Throughout his journey, Robert achieved significant milestones by seamlessly collaborating with production, sales, and quality teams.

His deep involvement in technical and process development for the National High-tech Enterprise Certificate application in 2017 underscored his commitment to high industry standards. Robert’s innovative spirit shone through with the optimization and implementation of product designs at HTD, contributing to new business development.

Facing a complex project, Robert initially sought assistance for tool set design but later delved into studying principles and seeking advice, successfully putting the tool set into production. Subsequent challenges during a transition to a new design were autonomously navigated by the team, resulting in smooth operations. As a project leader, Robert initiated and successfully implemented a wastewater treatment system, showcasing his commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible business practices.

Amid challenges, Robert’s steadfast belief that every problem holds a solution, and opportunities arise from challenges has been a guiding principle. HTD’s culture of continuous improvement and experimentation provided fertile ground for his growth. With 24 years devoted to HTD, Robert stands as a valued member of the H&T Group, proud to contribute to its legacy of excellence.

His journey is more than a testament to professional accomplishments. It reflects a dedicated individual who continues to learn from successes and failures, eager to share these experiences with colleagues. As Robert reflects on his journey, he remains “Hungry & Thirsty” for new achievements, embodying the spirit of innovation and growth that defines HTD’s culture.

Aibee joined Heitkamp Und Thumann (S) Pte Ltd in 2009 as a Quality inspector in the Flat Part department. Back then, she was the first female employee in the shopfloor and was tasked to conduct quality checks for all the Flat Parts before they could be released for shipment. Being meticulous, she was also tasked to keep track of spare parts and inventory transactions.

Over the years with H&T, her career developed further. She was promoted to Production Planner in 2011, to Logistic Officer in 2013 and from 2022, she was promoted to SCM Executive. Prior transitioning to Logistics functions, Aibee also spent 6 months in the Continuous Improvement Department.

Aibee plays an important role in the supply chain. Her primary responsibilities encompassed ordering direct materials from overseas suppliers and overseeing production planning to ensure on-time, in-full deliveries to customers. This role provided extensive exposure to logistics-related challenges, which demanded both adaptability and time sensitivity.

Events such as the Hanjin insolvency and the onset of the Covid pandemic heightened the importance of maintaining good safety stock while effectively managing inventory costs.

“In Singapore’s land-scarce environment, strategic considerations around stock storage and cost-saving measures remains crucial. What truly stood out for me at HTS was the companionship among colleagues, fostering a familial atmosphere. Despite the fast-paced nature of the environment, the willingness of individuals to embrace change was evident.

At HTS, the culture encourages continuous learning through internal and external training, seminars, courses, and internal knowledge exchange. These opportunities inspired personal growth and a constant drive to challenge ourselves collectively.

Reflecting on my experiences at HTS, I take pride in being an employee and a valued member of this close-knit family.”