Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Websites
Professional Development Courses
Journal Articles
Conference Presentations
References
Timeline
Generic
Nalinda Dissanayaka

Nalinda Dissanayaka

Brisbane,Australia

Summary

Experienced leader with a proven track record in manufacturing (industrial gloves, sailboats, and textiles), telecommunications (NBN/Telstra), construction, medical, and retail industries. Skilled in streamlining operations, reducing costs, and enhancing organizational efficiency through independent decision-making and sound judgment. Effective manager adept at team building, leadership, and motivation, with a strong focus on customer relations and fostering productive relationships. Committed to optimizing employee engagement, ensuring workplace safety, and achieving ambitious company objectives in dynamic, fast-paced environments. Demonstrated ability to thrive under pressure, adapt to challenges, and consistently deliver high performance. Recognized for successful collaboration with diverse stakeholders to drive organizational success.

Overview

13
13
years of professional experience

Work History

Doctoral Researcher

Herstan Biofabrication Institute (HBI)
01.2021 - Current
  • Led project developing advanced 3D printing techniques for neurosurgical training models, collaborating with senior neurosurgeons and interdisciplinary teams.
  • Tested and optimized 3D printing technologies and materials to replicate intricate anatomical structures essential for surgical training.
  • Conducted successful workshops at regional hospitals to demonstrate and refine 3D-printed models.
  • Streamlined research processes, ensuring efficient data collection, analysis, and publication.
  • Managed lab resources effectively to meet experiment timelines and resolve equipment issues.
  • Collaborated across disciplines to evaluate and integrate new technologies, proposing innovative data capture and analysis methods.

Doctoral Researcher

University Of Queensland
01.2021 - Current
  • Collaborated with Herston Biofabrication Institute, Metro North Health Queensland, and the University of Queensland on research projects, conducting experiments and workshops.


Retail Team Member (Part-Time)

Woolworths Supermarket
01.2021 - Current
  • Managed store opening/closing procedures according to company guidelines, ensuring punctuality and security measures were upheld.
  • Ensured high level of customer satisfaction with efficient problem solving when handling returns or exchanges.
  • Upheld high standards of cleanliness throughout the entire store, contributing to an inviting atmosphere for both shoppers and employees.
  • Demonstrated adaptability by working across various departments as needed, showcasing versatility in retail skills and knowledge.
  • Collaborated with team members to meet daily sales goals, consistently exceeding targets throughout tenure.
  • Assisted in achieving store KPIs through consistent performance in sales metrics and adherence to company standards.
  • Increased customer satisfaction by providing exceptional service and addressing customer concerns promptly.

Assistant Manager Operation

Jantec Telecommunication PTY Ltd
10.2018 - 01.2021
  • Contributed to successful telecommunication projects for major clients such as Telstra and NBN, collaborating with cross-functional teams to achieve business objectives and improve operational performance.
  • Developed and implemented safe, scalable, and robust processes to support project execution, conducting thorough scoping and managing budget variations.
  • Facilitated the introduction of new processes, equipment, and materials, executing and documenting process validation builds.
  • Acted as a liaison between stakeholders, coordinating procurement logistics and optimizing inventory management with accurate forecasting and efficient ordering processes.
  • Handled escalated customer complaints effectively, resolving issues while maintaining strong client relationships and improving customer satisfaction rates.
  • Ensured compliance with industry regulations, company policies, and safety standards to maintain a secure working environment, conducting regular audits to ensure adherence to guidelines.
  • Provided support to the General Manager by monitoring performance metrics, assisting with strategic planning initiatives, and boosting profitability with strategic budgeting and expense control measures.
  • Spearheaded continuous improvement efforts by incorporating feedback, implementing quality assurance initiatives, and streamlining communication channels for better interdepartmental collaboration.
  • Managed daily staff scheduling, ensuring optimal coverage and minimizing labor costs, while reducing employee turnover rates by fostering a positive work environment and providing growth opportunities.
  • Enhanced operational efficiency by streamlining processes, implementing new systems, monitoring key performance metrics, and training team members to maintain high productivity and performance metrics.

Senior Process Engineer, Manufacturing-Industrial Glove Sector

Ansell (Industrial Global Business Unit)
04.2013 - 10.2018
  • Led Six Sigma projects to streamline processes, increasing product yield and optimizing processes to reduce costs and increase efficiency.
  • Played a key role in driving innovation and efficiency in manufacturing by leading engineering support for new product development initiatives and process improvement projects.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams and the manufacturing department to improve overall plant efficiency and effectiveness, utilizing MINITAB and lean six sigma manufacturing principles.
  • Reduced downtime for maintenance activities by developing and implementing preventive maintenance plans, and managed capital projects from concept to commissioning.
  • Conducted root cause analysis on process deviations, implementing corrective actions to improve product quality and conducting technical evaluations of engineering designs and test results.
  • Developed and implemented procedures to verify compliance with engineering standards, and conducted regular reviews to identify areas for improvement.
    Managed third-party contractors, inspecting completed work and ongoing efforts to confirm quality and adherence to prescribed guidelines.
  • Coached newly hired employees and interns, providing guidance and direction while developing documentation, diagrams, and specifications to meet project requirements and regulatory standards.
  • Led continuous improvement initiatives using Lean Six Sigma methodologies, resulting in significant process enhancements and cost-saving measures through the evaluation of raw material usage and waste reduction strategies.
  • Monitored design progress and evaluated new technology implementations, ensuring seamless integration into existing processes and enhancing safety performance with comprehensive operating procedures and training programs.

Production Executive

MAS Holding (Pvt) Ltd
01.2013 - 05.2013
  • Collaborated with production teams to optimize cost-effective, high-quality, and timely product delivery by implementing process improvements aimed at enhancing production quality and capacity.
  • Reduced operational costs through effective resource management, waste reduction initiatives, and the implementation of Lean Six Sigma principles to streamline processes and improve efficiency.
  • Coordinated cross-functional teams for successful product launches, meeting tight deadlines and budget constraints, and ensuring compliance with safety protocols to promote a safe working environment.
  • Developed and maintained production schedules, analyzed job orders, and proactively recommended workflow, operational, and equipment changes to enhance overall productivity.
  • Mentored junior staff members and led staff training programs, fostering professional development and increasing workforce capability in handling complex production tasks efficiently.
  • Reviewed production reports and raw data to identify areas for improvement, implement corrective actions, and enhance product quality, utilizing Lean Six Sigma methodologies for continuous improvement.

R&D Trainee Engineer (Internship)

North Sails
02.2011 - 08.2011
  • Collaborated with R&D teams to spearhead the design and development of critical components using composite and resin materials, contributing to key projects for sailboats.
  • Ensured adherence to regulatory standards during product development, minimizing risks related to non-compliance issues and optimizing material selection through rigorous testing procedures.
  • Executed various projects across multiple manufacturing divisions, driving innovation and excellence in product development.
  • Participated in regular progress meetings with project leads, providing updates on tasks and milestones to ensure alignment with project goals and seamless integration of new technologies.
  • Conducted comprehensive market research to identify gaps in existing products, informing future R&D efforts and contributing to the innovation at North Sails.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to optimize the development and implementation of new components, extending product lifespan without compromising performance capabilities.

Education

Doctor of Philosophy -

University of Queensland
Brisbane, QLD
07.2024

Master of Engineering (Professional) - Engineering Management and Additive Manufacturing

Deakin University
VIC, Australia
01.2020

Master of Business Administration (MBA) -

Australian Institute of Business
SA, Australia
01.2018

B.Sc. Engineering - Materials Engineering

University of Moratuwa
Sri Lanka
01.2013

Skills

  • Project Management
  • Operations Management
  • Continuous Improvement
  • Process Improvement
  • Cost analysis and savings
  • Logistics Planning
  • Asset Management
  • Facility Management
  • Health and Safety Compliance
  • Customer Engagement
  • Business Development
  • Six Sigma expertise

Websites

Professional Development Courses

  • Green Belt Certified, Lean Six Sigma
  • Fanuc Robot Operation & Programming (Handling Tool)
  • Certificate of Industrial Automation & PLCs
  • Diploma in computer science

Journal Articles

  • Evaluation of 3D Printed Burr Hole Simulation Models Using Eight Different Materials, World Neurosurgery, 2023, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wneu.2023.05.115
  • How Safe are 3D Printed Skull Models for Neurosurgical Simulation? Measurement of Airborne Particles and VOCs while Burr Hole Drilling, Rapid Prototyping Journal, 2024, https://doi.org/10.1108/RPJ-09-2023-0318
  • Evaluation of a Pilot Regional Neurotrauma Workshop Using 3D Printed Simulation Models, Anal of 3D printed medicine Journal (Under review)
  • Evaluation of mechanical properties of different infill materials produced by SLA, FDM and MJ compared with the parietal region of a human skull, Additive Manufacturing Journal (Under review)
  • Evaluation of Burr Hole and Craniotomy Neurosurgical Training Simulation of 3D Printed Multi-materials Models, Journal of Neurosurgery (Under review)

Conference Presentations

  • Which 3D printed material best represents the skull, and is it safe to drill?, International conference of Formnext 2023, Messe Frankfurt, Germany, 11/2023
  • 3D printed burr hole simulation: Do you get what you pay for?, Herston Health Precinct Symposium 2022, Education Centre, RBWH, Brisbane QLD, 09/2022
  • Regional Neurotrauma Training with 3D Printed Models, Herston Health Precinct Symposium 2023, Education Centre, RBWH, Brisbane QLD, 09/2023

References

  • Dr. James Novak, Design Manager, Cure Marine, Coolum Beach, QLD, James.Novak@curemarine.com.au, +61 432 983 910
  • Dr. Luigi Vandi, Senior Lecturer, School of Mechanical and Mining Engineering, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, l.vandi@uq.edu.au, +61 424 705 763

Timeline

Retail Team Member (Part-Time)

Woolworths Supermarket
01.2021 - Current

Doctoral Researcher

Herstan Biofabrication Institute (HBI)
01.2021 - Current

Doctoral Researcher

University Of Queensland
01.2021 - Current

Assistant Manager Operation

Jantec Telecommunication PTY Ltd
10.2018 - 01.2021

Senior Process Engineer, Manufacturing-Industrial Glove Sector

Ansell (Industrial Global Business Unit)
04.2013 - 10.2018

Production Executive

MAS Holding (Pvt) Ltd
01.2013 - 05.2013

R&D Trainee Engineer (Internship)

North Sails
02.2011 - 08.2011

Doctor of Philosophy -

University of Queensland

Master of Engineering (Professional) - Engineering Management and Additive Manufacturing

Deakin University

Master of Business Administration (MBA) -

Australian Institute of Business

B.Sc. Engineering - Materials Engineering

University of Moratuwa

Similar Profiles

CREATE PROFILE
Nalinda Dissanayaka