"Ken" (Schagne-Kenneth) Van Der Merwe Email & Phone Number

Australia

As the Operations Coordinator at Powerauto Hydraulics, I play a pivotal role in managing and optimizing warehouse operations. Powerauto Hydraulics, a family-operated leader in hydraulic engineering in Australia, specializes in trucks and mobile equipment. With over 22 years of industry experience, we are committed to excellence and innovation in a niche market.Key ResponsibilitiesWarehouse Management: Overseeing logistics to ensure efficient and accurate inventory management, continuously improving processes and implementing operational standards.Electrical Production: Assembling, wiring, and testing electrical components and systems to meet high-quality standards.Support Functions: Providing essential support to the warehouse store, assisting with product testing, and participating in research and development activities.Safety and Maintenance: Maintaining the safety and appearance of the showroom and warehouse, ensuring a clean and safe environment.Order Management: Managing the picking, packing, receiving, and dispatching of orders, particularly spare parts, ensuring timely and accurate fulfillment.Collaboration: Assisting colleagues with daily tasks, fostering a supportive and collaborative work environment.Project Involvement: Engaging in special projects set by the System Integration & Business Development Manager, contributing to strategic initiatives.With a strong focus on efficiency and quality, I am dedicated to enhancing the operational capabilities of Powerauto Hydraulics and contributing to our continued success in the hydraulic engineering industry.

Bohle Plains, Queensland, Australia.

Current Status: Temporarily paused active management roles to facilitate a thorough internal review pending NDIS registration, aiming to uphold the highest standards of governance and transparency.ASIC registered Company Director Key Responsibilities:1. Strategic Direction: Sets and reviews strategic direction, aligning with stakeholder interests. Spearheaded expansion into Supported Independent Living (SIL) under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).2. Corporate Governance: Ensures compliance with legal requirements and oversees governance. Initiated governance reviews after returning as Director and major shareholder.3. Financial Oversight: Approves budgets, oversees financial planning, and ensures financial health.4. Risk Management: Manages risks, focusing on maintaining operational standards for NDIS registration.5. Decision-making: Makes decisions based on operational and financial reports.Performance Monitoring: Evaluates management and company performance against strategic goals.6. Stakeholder Engagement: Engages shareholders, employees, and regulators, promoting transparency and trust.7. Compliance and Legal Obligations: Ensures adherence to the Corporations Act, ASIC regulations, and NDIS requirements. Led operational standard overhauls for NDIS compliance.8. Meeting Participation: Influences strategic decisions through active participation in board meetings and AGMs.9. Ethical Leadership: Promotes ethical practices and handles conflicts of interest.10. Operational Excellence and Innovation: Developed infrastructure for disability support services, managing renovations to enhance SIL facility functionality.11. Project Management and Systems Integration: Managed alignment with NDIS registration, directing projects to enhance service delivery efficiency.

Australia

This is my sole proprietorship: Project based turnkey service management and delivery.1. Custom Consulting and Solutions Architecture: Offering tailored consulting and solutions implementation across sectors such as manufacturing, retail, and services. Specialises in integrating sales, customer service, quality control, risk management, and logistics.2. IT and System Expertise: Broad expertise in system architecture, software development, project management, robotics, IoT, machine learning, and AI tools, delivering turnkey solutions.3. Key Projects:3. 1. Factory Automation: Automated a potato cake manufacturing process in Melbourne, incorporating advanced technologies for enhanced efficiency.3. 2. Automated Reselling System: Developed a book reseller scouting and posting system for an Amazon Seller Partner, using SaaS for streamlined inventory and order processing.3. 3. Public Works Reimbursement System: Engineered software for businesses affected by public works to automate loss reimbursement applications.3. 4. SIL Facility Renovation and Automation: Led the transformation of a residential property into a supported living facility, automating administrative functions to improve service delivery.4. Process Automation: Drives the automation of processes using robotics, IoT, and AI, reducing manual intervention and enhancing operational efficiency.5. Innovation through AI: Leverages machine learning and AI to enhance solutions and drive innovation, maintaining up-to-date industry knowledge.6. End-to-End Solution Delivery: Delivers comprehensive solutions from concept through implementation and support, ensuring operational excellence and integration.7. Operational Excellence and Client Focus: Streamlines processes to allow clients to focus on core functions, enhancing efficiency through advanced technologies.8. Demonstrable commitment to quality and cutting-edge technology, managing IT complexities while upholding high professional standards.

Australia

Current Role: Co-SignatoryResponsibilities: Currently, I hold the responsibility of co-signatory, providing oversight and approval for critical financial transactions and contractual agreements, ensuring continued adherence to high standards of fiscal management and corporate governance.ASIC registered Company Secretary Key Responsibilities:1. Statutory Compliance & Record-keeping: Ensures adherence to the Corporations Act, maintains statutory registers, and lodges necessary documents with ASIC.2. Corporate Governance: Advises the board on governance practices, ensures compliance with the company’s constitution, and facilitates director training.3. Meeting Administration: Organises and prepares agendas for board meetings and AGMs, ensuring legal and constitutional compliance.4. Communication with Shareholders: Manages shareholder communications, oversees dividend distributions and share transactions, and distributes annual reports.5. Advisory Role: Serves as a communication link between the board, management, and external parties like regulators, providing guidance on legal implications and corporate strategies.6. Risk Management and Compliance: Monitors legislative changes, develops compliant policies, and manages legal risks.7. Financial Management: Oversees financial reporting and coordinates with auditors for annual audits.8. Liaison with ASIC and Other Authorities: Acts as the primary contact for ASIC, ensuring compliance with legal obligations.9. Ethics and Confidentiality: Maintains the confidentiality of company proceedings and ensures ethical business practices.

Australia

ASIC registered Company Director Key Responsibilities:1. Strategic Direction: Sets and reviews the strategic goals, aligning them with market conditions and stakeholder interests.2. Corporate Governance: Oversees governance and ethics, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations. Developed corporate governance policies including the company constitution and privacy policies.3. Financial Oversight: Approves budgets, oversees financial planning, and ensures accurate financial reporting. Involved in setting up company banking and financial systems.4. Risk Management: Identifies and mitigates risks to the company’s operations and reputation, ensuring effective risk management systems are in place.5. Decision-making: Makes decisions based on detailed reports on the company’s operations and market dynamics.6. Performance Monitoring: Evaluates the management’s performance and the company’s strategic achievements.7. Stakeholder Engagement: Maintains transparent and effective communication with all stakeholders.8. Compliance and Legal Obligations: Ensures adherence to the Corporations Act, ASIC regulations, and other statutory requirements.9. Meeting Participation: Attends and contributes to board meetings and AGMs, influencing company direction.10. Ethical Leadership: Promotes an ethical business environment, handling conflicts of interest with integrity.11. Operational Systems Development: Created autonomous operations and reporting systems using Microsoft Suite (Power Automate Workflows) and SharePoint.12. Logistics and Partnerships: Established international shipping partnerships and other corporate obligations.13. Marketing and Online Presence: Built the company website and developed marketing materials.

Moorabbin, Victoria, Australia

Stockist and forklift operations: My duties included inventory receipt and control, picking and rotating stock, quality control, forklift, equipment, pallet and waste management. I worked with pallet racking and pick faces in sub-zero freezers and refrigerators using 4m+ electric & LPG forklifts, and side loaders, pallet jacks, manual stretch wrappers, RFID and QR code scanning.

Cheltenham, Victoria, Australia

Stockist and forklift operations for AR Foodservice. My duties included inventory receipt and control, picking and rotating stock, quality control, forklift, equipment, pallet and waste management. I was hired directly by AR Foodservice after this tenure.I worked with pallet racking and pick faces in sub-zero freezers and refrigerators using 4m+ electric & LPG forklifts, and side loaders, pallet jacks, manual stretch wrappers, RFID and QR code scanning.

Dandenong, Victoria, Australia

Warehouse and Forklift operations for Ensign Linen Services Australia, formerly Spotless Laundry. My duties included inventory receipt, inventory control, quantity control, waste management, equipment maintenance, building a tailored ERP system using MS Suite and developing SOPs for the Warehouse Operator role.I used a 4m+ LPG rough terrain forklift, 3m+ electric high lifter, pallet jacks, manual stretch wrappers, RFID and QR code scanning.

Hallam, Victoria, Australia

My role was both multifaceted and dynamic, leveraging the cross-disciplinary expertise I had cultivated. At the heart of our operations lay two adjacent warehouses, a toolroom, research and development laboratories, and various production floors. These spaces housed an intricate inventory of over 5,000 distinct parts, systematically organised across 1,800 pallet locations. With an unwavering commitment to efficiency and precision, I oversaw and executed the seamless orchestration of tasks: from the meticulous receipt of materials, their strategic storage, value-adding servicing, to their eventual transfer within our warehousing & to our partners, both internal and external.Safety & well-being were paramount. As the designated First-aid Warden, I not only ensured timely medical intervention during emergencies but also proactively worked to reduce risks with blind spot mirrors, cord guards & barriers. A significant milestone was the inception and execution of traffic management plans, which I deployed across our twin warehouses.My operational proficiency was deeply rooted in my comprehensive understanding of the inventory. I possessed an intimate knowledge of each part, the products they culminated into, their interrelationships, the suppliers that provided them, and how they seamlessly integrated with our departments.Driven by a desire for excellence, I championed several pivotal initiatives. Among them, was the introduction & rollout of an advanced automation enabled inventory management system, subsequently the Odoo ERP platform: Complemented by the development of inventory location tracking mechanisms. Furthermore, I steered site upgrades, streamlined waste management, and played a decisive role in equipment procurement and maintenance. The manufacturing and research & development departments' increasing demands were met by our continuous improvements: Process refinements, strategic hiring, training, and leadership of a dedicated warehouse operations team.

Hallam, Victoria, Australia

My role included the design, testing, manufacture & finishing of timber, polycarbonate, steel, & aluminium structures, parts, tools, jigs & products through the use & maintenance of manual, hand-powered, cord-powered & fixed plant tools & equipment, and sourcing the requisite raw materials and consumables. The tools and equipment I used included but were not limited to chisels, drills, grinders, cutters, reciprocating & circular saws, bandsaws, jigsaws, CNC machines, milling machines, lathes, mitre saws, TIG welders, rivet guns, table laser cutters, pipe threaders, electrolytic passivators, soldering equipment and a range of electronics testing equipment. I reported to the R&D department and also performed adhoc fabrication tasks for every other department.Transition to Warehouse Coordinator:As Warehouse Coordinator for Coolon LED Lighting's twin facilities in Hallam, I spearheaded the development and refinement of a comprehensive tool and inventory management system. This system enhanced operations across logistics, sales, R&D, accounting, and quality control, integrating the full production lifecycle from raw material acquisition through to machining, assembly, and final dispatch.I used 6m+ counterbalanced electric (with mechanical and digital controls) & LPG forklifts with slipper, side shift, and weighing attachments, pallet jacks, automatic & manual stretch wrappers, and QR code scanning. Project Highlights:I played a crucial role in significant projects such as the Swan Street Bridge Upgrade, Lonsdale Street revamp, and the construction of the Outer Western Ring Road. These projects are a testament to our team’s dedication and skill, showcasing the integration of superior materials, expert techniques, and advanced technology in creating durable and noteworthy infrastructure.

Blackburn, Victoria, Australia

In my capacity as a Shopkeeper (Sales and Inventory) at a bustling shopping centre retail store, I played a pivotal role in ensuring the shop was operational and welcoming from the first customer of the day to the last. Daily responsibilities saw me engaging actively with customers, understanding their requirements, and guiding them towards products that best suited their needs. The entire sales process, right from showcasing products to billing, was executed via the Salesforce platform, ensuring a smooth and efficient customer experience. Every evening, I balanced the register, ensuring no discrepancies arose in our financial records. The backbone of our inventory management was the Microsoft Suite, through which I maintained an up-to-date record of stock, ensuring we never ran out of in-demand items and efficiently managing supply chains.In tandem with my sales duties, I also served as the Office Administrator, a role that primarily revolved around managing bookings, customer relationships, and ascertaining their requirements were met without a hitch. This often required coordinating with various teams, ensuring a seamless experience for our clientele.However, my responsibilities didn't just stop at administration. I also took on the role of a Multimedia Technician. This entailed setting up sound engineering equipment for on-site events. From microphones to speakers, ensuring crystal clear sound was paramount. Additionally, I managed multimedia operations, ensuring events were visually and sonically a treat for attendees.Achievements during my tenure:1. Enhanced customer experience through efficient usage of the Salesforce platform, achieving a significant increase in repeat customers.2. Successfully managed over 50 on-site events, ensuring top-notch sound and multimedia quality, leading to positive feedback and increased bookings.The experience was a masterclass in multitasking, customer relationship management, and technical proficiency.

West Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia

As a dedicated Admin and Customer Support Consultant, I specialised in emergency response and training during the night shift. Utilising a custom SAP-based Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platform, I effectively handled incoming calls, acting as a message service, customer service operator, or personal assistant. My responsibilities included recording and dispatching messages and adeptly resolving both simple and complex queries to enhance client relationships with each interaction. I also managed critical calls for insurance providers, organising emergency assistance and coordinating with tradespeople to schedule immediate "Make-safe" works following emergencies. This role required sharp skills in customer management, creative problem-solving, and professional communication, ensuring swift and effective responses in urgent situations.

Seaford, Victoria, Australia

As a Market Research Consultant at AFS Smart Askers, I specialised in making both cold and warm outbound calls using a custom SAP-based Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platform. My role involved conducting detailed business-to-customer (B2C) and business-to-business (B2B) market research. During my tenure, I created a positive work environment and excelled in my duties to the extent that I was given the flexibility to work as many hours as desired. My enthusiasm for the role often led me to work double shifts, totaling 11 hours per day, from Monday to Friday.

Moorabbin, Victoria, Australia

As a Sales Consultant at Philip Morris International, I leveraged a custom SAP-based Customer Relationship Management (CRM) platform to enhance customer relationships and knowledge. This enabled me to provide tailored and proactive services to clients, with the primary goal of maintaining or increasing sales volumes. I consistently surpassed sales targets by identifying and capitalising on local events that could spike demand, advising clients to adjust orders for quick turnover. During periods of supply chain disruptions, I utilised all available resources to expedite resolution of shipment delays and effectively managed client expectations, ensuring continued satisfaction and service continuity.

Frankston, Victoria, Australia

As a Team All-Star at KFC, located in a bustling shopping centre food court, I utilised a custom SAP-based sales management platform to deliver top-notch customer service and handle food preparation tasks efficiently. My responsibilities included maintaining accurate cash register operations, ensuring quick and precise transactions.Throughout my tenure, I frequently leveraged opportunities to showcase my strong interpersonal and conflict resolution skills, effectively handling customer interactions and enhancing the service experience.

Bachelor Of Computer Science (Leave Of Absence), Software Engineering

On a leave of absence: -Y1S1: WOMINJEKA LA TROBE: INDIGENOUS CULTURAL LITERACY FOR HIGHER EDUCATION, ACADEMY INTEGRITY MODULE.

Bsb40320 Certificate Iv In Entrepreneurship And New Business (Postponed), Business Administration And Management, General

Activities and Societies: -Dedicated Business Mentorship -Weekly Webinars Part 1 - Small Business Essentials Module (Weekly Live Webinars.

Certificate Iii In Information Technology, Information Technology

Competencies/Units included: 12 ICTCLD301 - Evaluate characteristics of cloud computing solutions and services BSBXCS303 - Securely manage.

Diploma, Diploma Of Logistics

Competencies: 15 Units BSBMGT502: Manage people performance BSBPMG522: Undertake project work BSBRSK501: Manage risk BSBSMB407: Manage.

Bachelors Of Early Years And Primary Education, Early Childhood Education And Teaching

Activities and Societies: After a very successful first semester, I was invited to join the Golden Key Internation honour Society. "Golden.

Certificate Iii In Security Operations, Security Operations: Crowd Control, Risk Management, Control Room.

Activities and Societies: ---------------Competencies: 20 Units -------------- BSBFLM303C: Contribute to effective workplace relationships.

Certificate Ii In Security Operation: Control Room Specialization, Computer And Information Systems Security/Information Assurance

Competencies: 13 Units CPPSEC2001A: Communicate effectively in the security industry CPPSEC2002A: Follow workplace safety procedures.

Certificate Ii In Security Operations, Security Operations: Rsa, Conflict Resolution, Self-Defensive Techniques And Controlling Persons.

CPPSEC10034: Apply security procedures for the responsible service of alcohol CPPSEC2001A: Communicate effectively in the security.

Bachelor Of Psychological Science, Counseling Psychology

While my studies at ACU were insightful and formative, I regretfully had to withdraw to focus on my work and family commitments.

Bachelor Of Engineering Science - Electrical And Electronics Engineering, Electrical And Electronics Engineering

While I very much enjoyed and found my studies at VU stimulating, I decided to withdraw from the course to pursue a more people-focused.

Certificate Iii In Christian Ministry

As a part of Lighthouse Christian College's mission statement all students were required to complete these studies. Units of Competency.

Vce Graduate (High School)

Activities and Societies: Student Leader 2008 - involved community service at a local aged care facility. House Captain 2008 (Wesley.

Year 7

Education record

Primary School, Prep A - Foundation