Lestercast Work Profile
2005 – Craig joined Lestercast as a Trainee Inspector, when he was just 18 years old.
2006 – In conjunction with his Trainee Inspector role, Craig started to work with Colin Caine, who was the Production Control Manager at that time. Part of the role included developing the company’s production control systems.
2007 – Craig was promoted to Production Control Assistant, staying within the inspection department. In this role, Craig worked alongside Colin Caine, the Production Control Manager, in planning and implementing schedules for all production operations throughout the company, as well as inputting and processing customer orders. Craig undertook various H&S training, team building and management and leadership courses including the Level 5 BTEC Professional Certificate in Management Studies.
2010 – Craig was promoted to Production Control Engineer, reporting to the General Manager (Colin Caine).
2012 – Craig was promoted to Production Manager, later becoming the Production Control Manager.
INTERVIEW WITH CRAIG TOWNSEND
WHAT IS YOUR ROLE AT LESTERCAST?
As Production Manager, I oversee the day to day operations of the foundry, supported by the Synchro ERP system, particularly the scheduler module to manage production timelines, process new orders, and coordinate departmental workloads. My responsibilities also include procurement of raw materials, managing shop floor staffing, and overseeing site maintenance. In addition, I work closely with customers to address queries, resolve issues, and ensure timely delivery of orders.
WHAT IS THE MOST EXCITING PART OF YOUR ROLE AT LESTERCAST?
I like the beginning, receiving and planning new orders and the satisfaction at the end, seeing them successfully dispatched. It’s that complex bit in the middle that gets in the way!
WHAT HAS CHANGED DURING YOUR TIME AS PRODUCTION MANAGER?
I have worked at Lestercast since 2005 and have witnessed the company grow significantly over the years. To support this growth, Lestercast has expanded its facilities by acquiring additional buildings to accommodate increased machinery and storage needs.
The company has always taken pride in maintaining a clean, well organised foundry, and each year we continue to reinvest in the site to uphold these standards. One of the most significant process improvements has been the transition from an alcohol based binder to a water based system within our shelling department, which has increased both safety and environmental standards.
Like many modern businesses, we increasingly rely on technology to drive efficiency and performance. We continue to optimise our use of the Synchro ERP system and have introduced Limble CMMS to streamline and manage our maintenance programs. A major advancement was the implementation of Magmasoft simulation software, which has helped us reduce scrap rates and improve on time, in-full delivery of NPI prototype projects.
What remains unchanged is Lestercast’s commitment to continuously reinvest and make improvements across all areas of the business.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE THE MOST ABOUT WORKING FOR LESTERCAST?
As Production Manager, one of the most fulfilling aspects of working at Lestercast is seeing how the entire operation functions as a cohesive system. When each department’s activities align and flow efficiently, it creates a unified manufacturing rhythm that drives consistency, reduces waste, and upholds the high standards required in precision investment casting. It’s that seamless integration across teams and functions that ultimately enables us to deliver castings of exceptional quality.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE DOING IN YOUR SPARE TIME?
Spare time, what’s that? In the Townsend household, free time is mostly shaped around the commitments of our three children. When we do get a window outside of the grassroots football season, we love making the most of it with trips away. whether it’s a city break or a visit to the coast. In between, I really enjoy catching up with family and friends, especially if it happens to coincide with an Aston Villa win.
