Interview with Hassan Bonouh

Hassan Bonouh, Production Manager, at AS since 1979 (40 years)

Hassan joined Automatic Systems almost 40 years ago as a technician. He has been workshop foreman for 35 years, and wouldn’t leave the company he is so proud of for anything in the world. Hassan’s secret? Embracing change!

Know-how and professional integrity

When he started out as a technician, Hassan put together all the products. Today, working as workshop foreman for 35 years, he manages the production schedule. Along with his director, Hassan decides how many members of staff are needed every week to get products out. He knows all the products like the back of his hand, and if there is a problem, the pressure doesn’t get to Hassan: instead he relishes the satisfaction he gets from finding the solution.

Hassan is able to accurately estimate the number of hours needed on each machine. And according to that, he puts together the schedule and manages a team of around 40 people, including temporary staff. Before going on holiday, Hassan likes to organise everything to the letter, not because he doesn’t trust other people, but rather for the benefit of his team and to make sure clients are happy. “I know the products well. I am difficult, but I treat my team well. When something has to be said, I say it and they listen. It’s easy to lose a client and hard to win one”, he explains.

Pride and recognition

Hassan is proud to work for Automatic Systems. Thinking about his retirement in 5 years is a shock for him. “I’ve learnt everything at AS. I joined just after finishing school. I had to choose between Philips and Automatic Systems. I did a test. I got both places. I chose Automatic Systems and I don’t regret it”, he explains.

Over the years, Automatic Systems has become like his own company or a second family. “For the management, the personal aspect is important. It’s not just about the money, we are also thanked and encouraged”, he continues.

Hassan has also seen positive changes in HR, and that department is increasingly likely to listen to production needs, “HR is interested in how shifts are organised, they look for temporary staff. You feel looked after”, he adds.

Accepting change

Hassan’s secret to staying with the same company for 40 years? “You have to accept change!”. Since it was founded, Automatic Systems has grown a lot. For him, the future of the company demands investment in new products, maintaining quality, meeting deadlines and quick reactions. “There is a lot of competition. We are getting really big, and we need to move forward even faster,” he concludes.