Five Minutes With… Gary Wick
In our latest series of Five Minutes With… we speak to Gary Wick one of our Managing Consultants to find out a little more about him and his role within Develop Consulting.
Can you tell us about your background and journey with Develop Consulting?
I’ve spent over 25 years in automotive logistics for a global car manufacturer (Jaguar), progressing from Team Leader to Logistics Manager. I ran a site in Coventry and a satellite site in Germany. Our organisation was a leader in the implementation of lean, winning various awards and recognised for delivering effective change while maintaining high employee engagement.
I had the opportunity to travel globally – to the USA, Canada, China, India, and Europe – assisting with project implementations and developing team capabilities across the globe.
In 2014, I joined the group’s consultancy business, helping develop a Global Lean Warehouse programme for a major pharmaceutical company. We rolled out the programme across the UK, Europe, and South Africa, giving me greater understanding of implementing Lean in various cultures.
One of my most challenging yet rewarding deployments was 18 months within an NHS acute hospital trust, leading the elective workstream. Working with bright, capable people, we reduced the outpatients waiting list in one specialty from over 400 to just 36.
After COVID affected the consultancy business, I joined Develop Consulting. I’ve been involved in diverse deployments, from yacht manufacturing to hydraulics, offsite construction, and major logistics and rail companies.
How has your role developed in that time?
At Develop Consulting, I’ve discovered a few key takeaways: the trust and freedom to operate and develop ideas, as well as the opportunity to work with highly capable colleagues. I continually learn from peers and leaders who have extensive knowledge in the Toyota Production System (TPS). As sector lead, I’m currently developing the Warehouse and Logistics sector, where we’ve had good success over the last three years.
What has been a highlight for you in terms of working with clients?
Solving problems for businesses and building their teams’ capabilities to sustain and further improve performance is highly rewarding. It’s satisfying to see clients not only maintain improvements but continue making further gains. Additionally, contributing to Develop Consulting’s success by winning new business and expanding our client portfolio has been a personal highlight.
What has been your biggest challenge, and what challenges are your clients facing?
Keeping up with rapid changes in digital technology is a significant challenge. We need to leverage the latest developments to increase value and speed of change for our clients. The development of AI isn’t a threat if embraced, but it will be if ignored.
Clients are facing increased material and labour costs in competitive markets with squeezed margins. Develop Consulting’s approach has helped clients address supply chain challenges, better manage inventory, and improve efficiency to maintain margins. We’ve developed proven analyses to help clients understand, plan, and prepare for increased costs.
Where do you see the next few years heading for your role and sector?
In the coming years, I aim to establish the Warehouse and Logistics sector and further increase the range of sectors where Develop Consulting operates.
We’ve also been doing great work in the airport sector, developing proven solutions to improve passenger experience and increase throughput. After all, who doesn’t want more time shopping and in bars, rather than standing in long queues before a holiday?
Tell us a little more about yourself?
I’ve been married to Paula for over 29 years and have three children. Ethan recently graduated from the University of Liverpool, Caitlin is a deputy sister at Norwich hospital, and Leonie works in Human Resources for probably the best drinks company in the world. On weekends, I enjoy walking our cockapoo, Rafa, who keeps us entertained, and socialising with friends.
