About the Speaker

Kingston Ontario

Lean Import/Export - Customs Duty Review

Knorr Brake Limited manufactures braking equipment for the rail industry. 45% of production materials are imported. 80% of finished product is exported globally. Duty represents a significant cost to KBL (500K per year)
During these tough economic times imperative to review all areas for lean improvements. There are several opportunities to reduce duty costs, NAFTA, tariff classification, drawbacks, etc. KBL hired a consultant, recovered over 150K, reduced annual costs, improved processes, ensured compliance.

Featured Best Practice(s)
Lean Office, cost control, process improvements, employee training, Canadian Subsidiary Expertise, keep Canadian Manufacturer as a low cost supplier, Ensure customs compliance.

About the Speaker:

Jim Heney, CMA, Controller, Knorr Brake Limited

Jim Heney is the Controller for Knorr Brake Ltd. (KBL) in Kingston, ON.  KBL is the Canadian arm of Knorr Bremse, a worldwide company with head offices in Germany.  KBL is the world leading manufacturer of Locomotive Braking Systems for the freight rail market with exports worldwide.  KBL also serves the Canadian Rail industry for aftermarket. Jim attended Seneca College, and completed courses with University of Windsor and Carleton U., leading to attaining the CMA designation in 2007. Jim has held positions with Steep Rock Resources, Pillar Financial Services,  owning and operating a Fitness Centre, and managing a home building business. Jim is married to Ruth Heney(Greer) and has four children.  In his spare time Jim enjoys playing the violin, water skiing, wakeboarding, and horse back riding. Claim to fame - won the Masters Canadian Wakeboard Championships in 2007.