- Current Position: Key Operator
- Business: Edwards Vacuum
Kain Parks is a Key Operator at Edwards Product Company in Eastbourne, responsible for supporting production through product assembly, stakeholder collaboration, and problem-solving across the manufacturing process. Passionate about continuous improvement and learning new skills, he thrives on the variety and challenges his role brings each day. Currently completing a Team Leadership Apprenticeship, Kain is developing his leadership capabilities while helping drive operational success, with a strong focus on accountability, teamwork, and personal growth.
What does your role involve, and what do you enjoy most about it?
My role as a Key Operator involved building products, chasing parts, collaborating with stakeholders, and resolving any issues that arise during production. What I enjoy most is the variety of the role as every day brings new challenges. I enjoy working with different teams to solve problems and I also like working with the New Product Innovation teams, when they are developing new products.
What skills have been the most important to your success as an Operator?
Being hands-on and adaptable has been key to my success. I enjoy learning new skills and taking on new challenges, which has helped me develop throughout my time in the role. I also think taking accountability and learning from my mistakes has helped me grow. Every challenge is an opportunity to learn and improve
What inspired you to take the next step in your career?
I have always pushed myself to learn new things and take on extra responsibility whenever possible. Because of that, taking the next step in my career felt like a natural progression and a great opportunity for personal and professional growth.
You are currently undertaking a Team Leadership Apprenticeship. What do you think the biggest lesson you have learnt has been?
So far, the biggest lesson for me has been understanding how to communicate effectively, motivate others, and adapt my leadership style to diffferent situations to get the best out of a team. I have also learnt the importance of self-reflection and how taking time to evaluate your own performance can help you continuously improve and develop as a leader.
Looking back to when you first joined the business, did you imagine you'd be working towards a leadership position? What advice would you give to others who want to follow a similar path?
I enjoy working at Edwards and being part of the vacuum industry. The work we do supports many industies across the world, and it's rewarding to know that what you do can have a positive impact globally.
At first, I did not see myself moving into a leadership position. However, as time went on and I realised I wanted to stay at Edwards, I took every opportunity available to help me develop and grow.
My advice to anyone looking to progress is to take advantage of every opportunity available to you. Speak with your manager and create a clear development plan to help you achieve your goals. Challenge yourself and, where appropriate, challenge the business to improve. Take accountability for your actions, learn from your mistakes, and see them as opportunites for growth. Most importantly, do not be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and get your hand dirty.
