Robert Breton has over 40 years of experience in knife manufacturing, including roles as Executive Vice President and President at Ontario Knife Company and President at Queen Cutlery Company. He has expertise in strategies that enhance productivity and profits. Breton is skilled in leadership, operations management, project management, and relationship development. He has experience directing organizations through growth periods and managing technical and business functions through change.
Over 35 Years Experience Driving Growth and Profits as an Accomplished Executive
1. 31 Maple Avenue
Franklinville, NY 14737
ROBERT J. BRETON
vpbobo@yahoo.com
Cell: (716) 474-9777
An accomplished Executive Vice President and President, with expertise in the manufacture of knives,
varying from the intricate pocketknives to rugged military knives. Solid experience creating strategies
and processes that enhance productivity and increase profits. Demonstrated success directing
development of organizations during periods of growth. Deep understanding of how technical
implementations and business functions are impacted during organizational change. Possess diverse
experience in industrial manufacturing methods, processes, and procedures for two separate knife
companies. Strong management and leadership skills, with ability to motivate professionals and
maximize levels of productivity. Excellent communicator, with emphasis on building strong customer
and employee relationships.
QUALIFICATION HIGHLIGHTS
Team Leadership
Customer Services
Sales/Marketing
Training
Delivery Organizations
Operations Management
Organizational Development
Relationship Development
Account Management
Project Management
Product Design Process
Improvement
PROFESSIONALEXPERIENCE
Ontario Knife Company, Franklinville, NY
Executive Vice President & Chief Manufacturing Officer
Executive Vice President
June 2012-Present
January 1999 -June 2012
2. Plant Manager January 1992 – January 1999
Materials Manager January 1987- January 1992
Time Study Analyst July 1986-January 1987
Sales Coordinator February 1984- July 1986
Production Scheduler/Customer Liaison December 1980- February 1984
Hafter February 1976- December 1980
Material Handler October 1975-February 1976
Started from the ground up, I became familiar with all the operations of the manufacturing facility,
including buying steel and required goods to produce world renowned products that included the U.S.
Military. I advanced over the yearsand became fluent in the overall operations of the facility. I have
designed and managedthe making of machinery that wascapable of streamlining the production and
enhancing our bottom line profits. I have been a vital link in the creation of many of the knife designs
produced over the years. I oversee the entire business operation always striving to make every job more
efficient and effective. My strongest strength is the rapport I have with my employees. I am fair but firm,
respectful, and courteous. My employees are willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done efficiently
and strive for a top quality product.
• Developed and organized various teams for new products, designs, processes, safety, and
prototyping.
• Created and implemented various employee events such as Summer Employee
Appreciation day, Christmas Awards & Luncheon, Health and Wellness programs,
Employee Sales, Retirement parties, and more.
• Implemented standardized procedures that supports and contributed to increase in annual
revenues.
• Created and implemented production guidelines to prevent products going over budget or
beyond scope.
• Established roles and responsibilities that clearly defined tasks and improved overall
organization and productivity.
Queen Cutlery Company, Titusville, PA
President March 1995-September 18, 2012
Oversaw operationsand general management of pocketknife manufacturing facility. Managedsales,
marketing, accounting, purchasing, maintenance, and support. Directedpersonnel and office staff.
• Evaluated requirements to be competitive in the collector’s pocketknife industry. Streamlined
processes and procedures to improve overhead and increase profits.
• Oversaw Quality Control and Purchasing to maximize efficient processes on waste reduction,
rework methods, and efficiency methods.
• Organized scheduling managed production staff and set up training to improve delivery
process. Established realistic lead times and economical order quantities to prevent inefficient
production runs.
• Directed and assisted Sales force to become more effective and efficient. Attended and organized
various trade shows throughout the year. Established a good rapport with distributors, customers,
competitors, and vendors. Implemented marketing guidelines, publicity and advertising
programs, customer service strategy and training guidelines to ensure high level of customer
satisfaction.
• Executed project plan that created cohesive team environment for entire staff, both internally
and externally.
3. EDUCATION
University of Phoenix, Phoenix, AZ
Master of Science in Business
Empire State College, Saratoga Springs, NY
Bachelor of Science in Business
ACTIVITIES ANDACHIEVEMENTS
Elder of the First Christian Church, Machias, NY
Mayor of the Village of Franklinville, NY (currently serving third 4-year term)
Member of the lschua Valley Country Club, Franklinville, NY
BaseballCoach for the Little League, Franklinville
Sponsor for various sports teams, school teams and
events
References available upon request