Starting his career as a cabinetmaker, Daniel Mesecke's passion for tangible results and hands-on work led him to master various aspects of the manufacturing process. His expertise grew through years of using Microvellum software, eventually propelling him into project management for large commercial projects. In 2020, he transitioned into a pivotal role as the Microvellum UK Account Manager, where he now leverages his extensive knowledge to help other businesses thrive.

We explore the dynamic nature of his daily responsibilities, the impact of technological advancements on the furniture industry, and the recent innovations at Microvellum that excite him the most. Additionally, he shares insights into maintaining strong client relationships, addressing the challenges of implementing new software platforms, and his significant role as Chairman of the Manufacturing Guild Mark (awarded by The Furniture Makers' Company to British manufacturers that have demonstrated incredible standards across all areas of the business by successfully passing a rigorous, independently reviewed audit.)

What inspired you to pursue a career in the manufacturing and technology sector, and how did you end up at Microvellum?

I was always inspired by the thought of having a tangible product to show because of the work I’d carried out and a sense of satisfaction to say, “I built that”.

Having started as a cabinetmaker, I was fortunate enough to work my way through learning the manufacturing and installation process and then soon ended up in the design department using Microvellum software after completing my apprenticeship.

After many years using Microvellum and gradually making my way into project management primarily for large commercial projects, in 2020 I decided it was time for a change of career and was fortunate enough to gain a position as Microvellum UK Account Manager.

Whilst I no longer have that tangible product to show, I’m very grateful to have the opportunity at Microvellum to help other people grow their businesses.

Can you describe your current role at Microvellum and what a typical day looks like for you?

As a Microvellum Account Manager, my day-to-day role involves a dynamic mix of responsibilities that revolve around managing client relationships and ensuring the success of service engagements. I provide operational expertise to clients to ensure their able to continually improve their business processes both using Microvellum and general manufacturing best practices.

I’m also the first port of call for new enquiries and facilitate software demonstrations to educate prospective users on the power of Microvellum.

How do you see advancements in technology impacting the future of manufacturing in the furniture industry?

Technology advancements are allowing for faster production of mass-produced furniture and improving both the design & manufacturing processes. An integrated CAD/CAM software solution enables the designer to visualise the design in 3D and then being able to communicate that data direct to a CNC machine ensures accurate manufacturing and a reduction of errors. 3D printing is making headway and will continue to be more economical over time and allow manufacturers to prototype at a fraction of the cost of more traditional methods.

Sadly, with the push on technology-driven manufacturing, we are seeing a reduction in quality hand-skilled manufacturers, and without a push in education, this will continue to diminish. As an industry, it will be crucial to emphasise training of technology skills whilst also maintaining traditional methods as beautifully crafted furniture will always need the human touch.

What recent innovations at Microvellum are you most excited about, and how do they benefit your clients?

Microvellum’s extruded products are pushing the boundaries of automation for both general cabinet and commercial joinery construction. Released just a few months ago, our users are now able to create extremely complex runs of cabinets around angles and curves working from just one continuous base line to lay out multiple units.

We are also extremely excited about the new saw and nest optimisers that we’re currently working on which will enable our users even more flexibility with panel optimisation.

How do you maintain strong relationships with your clients and ensure their needs are met?

Building strong relationships is all about regular communication and being consistently reliable. Microvellum provides itself on being authentic and delivering rock-solid service to achieve positive outcomes.

What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your role, and how do you address them?

The biggest challenge faced in my role at Microvellum is prospects being averse to change. Implementing a software platform like Microvellum has an impact on the entire business from design through to manufacture and it’s crucial to get buy-in from all departments. Being able to create CNC code directly from the drawings is a blessing for the flow of manufacture and can yield extreme improvements in efficiency and accuracy, but these efficiencies can result in people needing to adapt their roles to align with the business's vision.

As the Chairman of the Manufacturing Guild Mark, what are your main responsibilities, and what do you hope to achieve during your tenure?

My focus as Chairman is to grow awareness of the Manufacturing Guild Mark and what it means to be a holder. We work in a fantastic industry and The Furniture Makers’ Company wants to continuously enhance the reputation of British manufacturing, and support companies in achieving and maintaining high standards of excellence.

How does the Manufacturing Guild Mark help raise standards in the industry, and what criteria are used to evaluate companies for this recognition?

Prospective holders of the Manufacturing Guild Mark go through a rigorous audit of all their business operations including design, product development, manufacturing, human resources, financial stability, sustainability, and sales and marketing. Being awarded the Mark is something to be proud of as a business and it holds them to account to be continually upholding these high levels of excellence. It also encourages other companies to raise their standards to align with holders and ultimately become holders themselves.

The continuous innovation at Microvellum, coupled with his leadership in the Manufacturing Guild Mark, Daniel contributes significantly to the evolving landscape of the furniture manufacturing industry. His story is a testament to the impact one can have when passion, expertise, and a dedication to quality converge.