ASHTABULA, Ohio—Nearly three decades of experience with virtually every department at Grand River Rubber & Plastics Co. has earned Robert Nelson the title of lathe cut production manager.
The employee-owned lathe cut gasket and vacuum cleaner flat belt manufacturer disclosed Nelson's promotion Aug. 10.
"Bobby has been an asset to Grand River Rubber & Plastics, continually driving innovation and efficiency across every department he has worked in during his 27 years at Grand River Rubber & Plastics," said Donald Chaplin, president and CEO of Grand River. "His extensive knowledge of lathe-cut production, combined with his six years of sales experience, gives him a unique skill set to drive production, quality and value for our customers."
According to Grand River, Nelson spent his first 20 years in the drum and pail division and lathe cut gasket production. After two decades on the floor, Nelson went to the sales department, where he has worked for the last six years.
Nelson now will head the lathe cut department and work alongside Chief Operating Officer Keith Wyatt "to optimize plant efficiency" and expand the company's lathe cut gasket services in both in the U.S. and abroad.
"My time in the sales department provided me a greater appreciation for the parts we make, which are utilized in nearly every industry and application you can imagine," Nelson said. "I am excited to use my knowledge to improve plant operations and provide our customers with high-quality custom lathe cut gaskets and unparalleled long-term value."
Grand River began in 1976 and employs 200 people in the production of washers, gaskets and pipe support systems for niche applications, as well as vacuum cleaner flat drive belts.