Starting with HMG and being a part of the Sime Darby family in 2018 following the acquisition of HMG by Sime Darby, Thomas McNamara's experience with Sime Darby is a tale of growth and camaraderie. He saw it as a natural progression given his admiration for the company. Since the acquisition, HMG have seen growth and success, thanks to the support from Sime Darby Industrial Services.
As a Continual Improvement Officer at HMG, Thomas's day-to-day varies. He enjoys the diversity in his role, from managing new machinery to improving processes. One of his most memorable projects was removing old machinery in 2023. It required careful planning, but everything went smoothly.
Apart from the machinery removal project, Thomas has been involved in several other innovative initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and sustainability. These projects include implementing new technologies, optimising supply chain processes and exploring renewable energy solutions.
Thomas actively collaborates with teams across different departments within the organisation, fostering a culture of cross-functional cooperation and knowledge sharing. What keeps Thomas motivated is the ever-changing nature of his job and the strong relationships he's built over the years.
Committed to his personal and professional development, Thomas actively participates in training programmes, workshops and industry conferences to stay updated on the latest trends and advancements in heavy engineering. Over the years, Thomas has picked up various skills, from technical know-how to people management, thanks to the training and support from Sime Darby. Thomas feels he adds value to the company by ensuring quality and timely delivery of products and by driving improvements where he can.
Thomas's role fits him well because he thrives on challenge and dislikes monotony. Challenges are part of the job, but Thomas faces them head-on, either alone or with his team. While Thomas's current role may not involve extensive leadership responsibilities, he actively seeks opportunities to mentor and develop emerging leaders within the organisation. By sharing his knowledge and experiences, he empowers others to succeed and grow professionally, contributing to a pipeline of future leaders within Sime Darby.
His work continues to be appreciated by his colleagues and management. What sets Sime Darby apart, according to Thomas, is its reputation, vibrant culture and focus on work-life balance. Looking ahead, Thomas hopes to explore more opportunities within the organisation, building on his growth so far.