Technical Metals achieves first gold award for operational excellence

Technical Metals Limited (TML) based in Newtownards, Northern Ireland, has been recognised with its first gold performance award as part of the 21st Century Supply Chains (SC21) Operational Excellence programme for improving operational effectiveness and achieving supply chain excellence.

The programme helps SMEs who supply major manufacturers in the aerospace and defence sectors to make operational improvements, reduce overheads and improve their potential to grow.

Established in 1984 and taken into private ownership in 1995, TML provides a range of cosmetic finishes and CNC machining for the global aerospace sector. The firm first started its journey on the SC21 programme in 2016, first achieving bronze award and improving to achieve the silver award three times from 2017.

To achieve a gold performance award, in a 12 month rolling performance indicator, companies need to consecutively deliver at least 99.00% of the products or services on time and to the required quality for a minimum of 99.99% compliant products or services.

Since joining the SC21 programme, TML’s customer on time in full delivery was below 90%, which has since improved year on year to achieve gold performance standards. The quality of its products has also improved with reject rate decreasing from 10% to 0.07%.

The company has have carried out training in-house and externally, with in-house training including cross training employees in the range of their processes, making them more efficient in the event of absence and sickness. The external training undertaken includes four employees embarking on CMI Diploma Level 3 in the principals of leadership and management. Through the programme, TML has become more aware of the risks posed, and have taken the necessary actions to mitigate risks, therefore strengthening relationships with the customer.

TML’s managing director, David Sales said: “Against a background of a global pandemic and economic uncertainty we are delighted to be awarded SC21 Gold during these extremely challenging times. The award is an acknowledgement of the professionalism and skill that we apply to all elements of our business and recognition of our staff, customers and suppliers. The diagnostics will continue to assist us with our Continual Sustainable Improvement Plan. Having received the Queens Award for International Trade in April and EFQM 5 Star in June of this year this third award in six months is very welcome.”