Meet the Expert – Greg Berger, Director of Engineering, Finlays Americas

 

  1. Thanks for joining us, Greg! Tell us about your role.

My role continues to evolve over my tenure with Finlays.  Today I am responsible for leading and executing capital projects that support Finlays Americas’ ambitious growth plans.  These projects could be a 1 for 1 replacement of older equipment to expanding our capabilities in support of new business. Additionally, I am responsible for the maintenance department in each of our manufacturing sites.  This includes daily support of production and includes preventive maintenance as well as breakdown repairs. What many people don’t know about my role is that I am also responsible for our Gonzales facility. While not directly an Engineering role, it has been a great opportunity for me to learn more about our business as a whole.

  1. You’ve been at Finlays for nine years, what has been most surprising for you?

Nearing a decade with Finlays, it’s surprising to know that I continue to learn new things almost daily, whether related to Engineering or elsewhere, I am always learning. Seek to understand and you will always feel engaged.

  1. What do you enjoy the most about engineering?

What I enjoy most about engineering is the fact that there are always new challenges to overcome. Brainstorming is something I do daily, and I feel I am always learning something new about our business and how we produce our goods.

  1. What achievement are you most proud of?

I am most proud of our Phase III expansion that was completed in 2019.  This was San Antonio’s largest ever project both in terms of complexity and project cost.  All in all, we expanded San Antonio’s manufacturing capability from grinding to extraction to concentration and tote filling.

  1. What gets you most excited about the future of Finlays?

There are so many opportunities out there to grow this business.  Many of those new pieces of business will require investment to either launch or meet customer demand. Engineering is busy planning and executing to support them all!

  1. Tea or coffee (and how do you take it)?

Coffee.  Black, with a bit of honey for sweetness.

  1. What do you get up to in your spare time?

When I am not at work, I am with my family.  I have a wife and two boys that keep me busy!  Whether we’re at a sporting event, band concert, or at the lake, we are always on the go.

  1. Tell us a surprising fact about you!

Grilling, smoking, or using cast iron, I really enjoy cooking a great meal!

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