Fresh out of Saint John's University in Minnesota with a bachelor's degree in biology and minor in psychology, Nick Murray began his career in the poultry industry, rose through the ranks at a state-of-the-art poultry processing plant, and discovered a passion for automation, engineering, driving metrics and mentoring diverse teams.
After four years of managing every processing department, he was recruited as a plant manager for what would become Redline Plastics in Manitowoc, Wis.
The owner of Dowco Marine divested the majority of the business to Patrick Industries, Murray was promoted to vice president of operations and managed the plastics and powersports segments, the plastics segment turned into a powerhouse of growth, and the company experienced more than 2,400 percent growth. Redline went from its original 45,000-square-foot facility to now operating a 225,000-square-foot facility.
Promoted to president in October 2022, Murray has navigated the "complexities of running a high-growth business, including divestitures, acquisitions, large financing events, significant capital investments, legal challenges, real estate management and large-scale building construction with operational transitional plans."
"The challenges over the last six years have been immense … but I have been fortunate to lead a team more than capable of tackling every obstacle with tenacity and innovation. The success we've achieved is a testament not just to my leadership but to the extraordinary team and vision that has driven Redline Plastics to its current heights," he said.
Murray said he is "continuing to enhance and propagate Redline's culture, capabilities, and talents for our customers and employees." He is most proud of the company's "How We Redline" company culture and the "exceptional" team that has been built as a result.
He is heavily involved with his community and local organizations, including the Manitowoc Chamber of Commerce, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, Society of Plastics Engineers, Association of Rotational Molders and more.
"To advance in my career, I've made it a priority to continuously expand my knowledge of the industries we serve and the diverse capabilities we offer. I seize every opportunity to enhance my leadership skills, focusing on successfully motivating a high-performing team and developing innovative ideas that deliver value to our customers. This commitment includes attending educational seminars, reading books that introduce new skills and insights, and investing in myself through formal education," he said. "My ongoing involvement with my peer group at Executive Agenda also plays a key role in my growth. I believe that continuous learning is essential for continued advancement in any career."
Redline Plastics has been named a Processor of the Year finalist by Plastics News, a PN Excellence Award winner for industry and public service, and a Best Place to Work in the plastics industry for the last four years.