Richard Opetu
Mechanical Engineering
Kakamega ,Nairobi
Summary
Accomplished Head of Mechanical Engineering at Mara Tea, adept in manufacturing process controls and fostering teamwork. Revolutionized mechanical design efficiency and optimized production costs, leveraging analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. Proven track record in mentoring and enhancing cross-functional collaboration, with significant contributions to environmental and quality standards.
Mechanical engineering professional with extensive experience in overseeing and optimizing engineering operations. Known for fostering strong team collaboration and delivering impactful results. Reliable and adaptable, skilled in mechanical design and project management.
Overview
24
24
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Head of Operations
Greenfield Industries Inc.
02.2025 - Current
- Increased customer satisfaction by actively addressing concerns and ensuring timely resolutions.
- Collaborated with executive leadership on strategic planning initiatives to drive business growth.
- Developed comprehensive training programs for staff, enhancing team performance and skill sets.
- Implemented risk assessment procedures to minimize potential disruptions across all areas of operation.
Head of Mechanical Engineering Department
Mara Tea
06.2022 - 01.2025
- Mentored junior engineers, providing guidance on best practices and fostering professional growth within the team.
- Championed quality assurance protocols to ensure consistent delivery of top-notch products while minimizing rework and waste.
- Increased efficiency in mechanical design processes by streamlining workflows and implementing innovative solutions.
- Enhanced collaboration with cross-functional teams by fostering open communication and mutual understanding of project goals.
- Leveraged cutting-edge simulation tools to optimize designs for better performance while reducing production costs significantly.
- Applied mechanical problem solving skills to develop creative solutions for quality products.
- Drafted assemblies, models, and other technical drawings.
- Tested newly installed systems, closely monitoring functionality and adherence to operating specifications.
- Performed pre-construction, quality and safety management, as well as constructability review, start-up and commissioning.
- Identified suitable materials for production use that aligned with environmental concerns and budget constraints.
Mechanical Engineering Technician
Elgon Tea Factory
02.2014 - 02.2022
- Enhanced archival processes to support efficient retrieval of engineering records.
- Contributed significantly to multiple successful projects by offering valuable insights during design review meetings.
- Coordinated with cross-functional teams to ensure timely completion of projects, meeting client specifications and deadlines.
- Improved equipment efficiency by conducting thorough diagnostic tests and identifying areas for optimization.
Mechanical Artisan
George Williamson Tea
02.2004 - 01.2014
- Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
- Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
- Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
Base Line Operator
Mumias Sugar Company
03.2007 - 03.2008
- Followed best manufacturing practices for operation of production equipment.
- Prioritized workplace cleanliness, adhering to 5S principles and maintaining an organized workspace that contributed positively towards overall operation efficiency.
- Loaded and unloaded product on and off conveyor line by routinely lifting up to Number pounds.
- Collaborated with maintenance team to develop preventative maintenance schedules, reducing frequency of unexpected breakdowns.
Mechanical Engineering Intern
Aga Khan Hospital
01.2001 - 06.2001
- Participated in regular team meetings to discuss project progress, challenges faced, and potential solutions for overcoming obstacles.
- Performed calculations according to standard procedures.
- Developed technical skills through training and shadowing experienced professionals.
- Complied with government and corporate safety policies and regulations.
Education
Post-Baccalaureate Diploma - Diploma in Engineering (Plant Option)
Kenya Institute Of Highway And Building Technology
Kericho 10.2000
High School Diploma - Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education
Ekambuli Secondary School
Mumias12.1994
Kenya Certificate of Primary Education
Ekambuli Primary
Mumias11.1990
Skills
Manufacturing process controls
Preventive Maintenance
Self-Motivated
Active Listening
Multitasking Abilities
Analytical and Critical Thinking
Problem-Solving
Energy management and control systems
Teamwork and Collaboration
Certification
Food safety team
Timeline
Head of Operations
Greenfield Industries Inc.
02.2025 - Current
Head of Mechanical Engineering Department
Mara Tea
06.2022 - 01.2025
Food safety team
09-2017
Mechanical Engineering Technician
Elgon Tea Factory
02.2014 - 02.2022
Base Line Operator
Mumias Sugar Company
03.2007 - 03.2008
Mechanical Artisan
George Williamson Tea
02.2004 - 01.2014
Mechanical Engineering Intern
Aga Khan Hospital
01.2001 - 06.2001
Post-Baccalaureate Diploma - Diploma in Engineering (Plant Option)
Kenya Institute Of Highway And Building Technology
High School Diploma - Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education
Ekambuli Secondary School
Kenya Certificate of Primary Education
Ekambuli Primary