From Operator to Leader: Michael Baird’s 10-Year Journey at SealesWinslow
Ten years ago Michael Baird started as an operator at SealesWinslow, and due to his hard work and ongoing development opportunities, has worked his way up to Senior Team Leader at the Morrinsville Mill. With the help of internal training and external courses, he’s been able to keep building his skills and adding new ones to his belt. “I’ve learned a lot along the way,” he says, “and the support here, both professionally and personally, is great.”
Michael loves the company’s culture, with the team always looking out for each other. SealesWinslow feels like more than just a workplace – it’s a place where teamwork really shines. “We all work together to get things done and genuinely want to see each other succeed,” he says. With people from all sorts of backgrounds, their combined experience helps drive collaboration and new ideas.
One of Michael’s favourite parts of his job is mentoring new staff. “Training is a priority,” he notes, knowing it’s key to helping the newer team members grow. For him, teaching and mentoring are not only rewarding but also essential for the company’s success. “I feel my role is important because we’re shaping the next generation of skilled workers,” Michael says proudly.
Over the past ten years, Michael has seen a lot of change at SealesWinslow. From hand-stacking hundreds of tons of product during busy times, to now using advanced tech like robots and automatic baggers. Michael has been through four major upgrades, each improvement boosting production and building efficiencies.
Despite some personal challenges with dyslexia and Asperger’s, Michael has always thrived in leadership roles. “I’ve struggled in social settings, but I’ve always moved into leadership positions,” he shares. The family-like culture at SealesWinslow makes him feel at home and supported.
Looking forward, Michael is excited about continuing his journey at SealesWinslow. “I really enjoy working here because of the great friends I’ve made and the continued family culture,” he says. He’s eager to keep growing in his role and helping others succeed as the company keeps evolving.
For Michael, SealesWinslow’s values match his own perfectly. “SealesWinslow’s main goal is to help farmers succeed, and that fits with my belief in helping others where I can,” he explains. This alignment of values has kept him motivated and proud to be part of SealesWinslow for over a decade.