In this article, we profile one of our key staff.
Name: Rob Bingon
Title: Supply Chain Lead
Q: What was your previous role?
I was a manufacturing quality assurance manager at Standard Communications, a company developing two way UHF/VHF radio emergency beacons and antennas. This role involved managing their ISO 9001 system and compliance with European Marine Equipment Directive standards.
Before that, I spent 10 years at Haltech Engine Management Systems as production manager for their engine control unit. This is an aftermarket device that takes full control of a car’s engine to better control the fuel and ignition. Being a car nut, I loved being involved in the high-performance aspects of that industry.
Earlier, I was involved in electronics contract manufacturing at All-Systems Electronics, which gives me a good background for this industry. I had my first job there as an intern and after I graduated I worked as a design engineer. As part of that role, I looked after production.
Rob with one of his project cars
Q: What is your biggest strength
My 20 years’ experience in electronics manufacturing gives me a good understanding of the needs of a small business growing to be an established company. I can put myself in the shoes of our customers easily because I have been there.
Q: What differences do you think you can make at Circuitwise.
I will be bringing a fresh point of view which derives from my enthusiasm and passion for building thing. Also, I am very customer focused which probably comes from the values instilled in me with my very first job at McDonalds. Without customers, you do not have a business.
Q: Please describe your role at Circuitwise. What does a typical day look like?
As the supply chain lead, I am taking charge of all the purchasing. I will be talking to vendors and our sales team. I will also be managing incoming goods to align with production schedules. The most important part of my work is to make sure we have all component arrive in time for when they are needed.
Q: What is the most interesting part of your work?
I really like the variety of products we manufacture. This leads to a corresponding variety of suppliers and the parts we procure. I am always talking to different people getting to know them better to build a great relationship.
Q: What attracted you to working at Circuitwise?
I was attracted to the family-run nature of the business. I like to know who I am working for and their values.
Q: What are your favourite activities outside of work? What are you most enthusiastic about?
I have always been interested in cars and own three project cars which I am modifying. I help others as well. My friend owns a workshop and I help him out there because I love dabbling with cars.
I do some rallying where I often navigate for my friends and sometimes take my own cars out. It is a team sport and a great community where people help each out. We get to travel around all over NSW. The furthest I have been for a rally is to Tasmania.
I’m also a bit of an outdoors person. I like camping, fishing boating, anything that gets me outside in an uncrowded space.
Q: Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Western Sydney. From a young age, I liked to build things. From about 8 years old I was getting tools instead of toys so I could build things. From that I chose to become an engineer, gaining a bachelor’s degree in an electrical engineer from Western Sydney University. Mostly I was building things I needed, such as furniture, and I recently renovated my house.
Q: What is the most important part of your work?
Working with suppliers, ensuring they are communicating current information on parts that are already on order and future demand. In the current market, without good relationships with suppliers it can be hard to secure parts on time. Keeping up to date helps us provide the best options for our customers.
Q: What is your best tip for customers in manufacturing electronic products?
Having a detailed plan of what you want is critical. Some companies don’t have a clear plan or set of requirements. This can lead to scope creep and a product that has all the features but is too expensive to buy. Being disciplined in how you manage your product development is critical. Also, do your best at forecasting quantities of your product needed as far out as you can. No longer can we rely on all parts being readily available in-store within a few weeks. With lead times of parts continuing to push over 52 weeks, a solid forecast can help a continuous supply of components when needed.
Q: Why should customers choose Circuitwise?
We offer a flexible approach to manufacturing and can offer solutions that meet their needs. Our internal systems were designed for contract manufacturing of quality products to meet our customers' requirements.