DMMI – Your Weekly Message from Kevin: April 10, 2020

Good afternoon, DMMI Team,

The old saying, “If you don’t like the weather in Michigan, wait 5 minutes,” really proved itself this week, didn’t it? In Battle Creek, we had a severe storm Tuesday evening, woke up to warmth and sunshine the next day, and saw snow by the end of the week. This crazy weather seems fitting for the strange times we’re living through!

TOWN HALL THANKS

Hundreds of you joined our first Virtual Town Hall Meeting this week on Webex. The success of this experimental event was due in large part to our great communications team, especially Matt Burton.

Of course, in true DENSO fashion, we’ve already discussed how to kaizen for next time. A key consideration is how to get greater participation from our plant associates. As we prepare to do another event with the next two weeks, we’re talking about picking a time later in the day.

If you have recommendations for a good day or time, or new questions for us, please share them (DMMI_Communications@denso-diam.com) so we can reach the most people.

We’re looking forward to talking with you again soon.

ASSOCIATE PAY, CRITICAL MANUFACTURING CONTINUES

In spite of a 95% reduction in DMMI’s revenue, we decided to continue our approach to nonexempt pay again next week. We did announce a change for exempt associates, asking everyone to take a minimum of one day off per week, beginning next week. Please know that these decisions are being made for all DENSO companies in North America. Our products and locations may be different, but we share the same philosophy about supporting our people. In a time when many of our friends and neighbors are struggling, it is a privilege to be a part of the DENSO family.

While most of you haven’t driven down Denso Road for a few weeks now, let’s not forget the dozens of people who have. I am well aware that many associates are not able to take a day off next week due to high demands on your time and talent. Our teammates are being called to manufacture and ship products required for critical portions of the transportation industry, and continue preparing our facility for a safe return to mass production. We see you, and we appreciate you. Thank you for your strong support of the whole DENSO team during this time.

FIND TIME FOR WHAT’S IMPORTANT

I want to thank DMMI leaders as they navigate these uncharted waters on behalf of the company, and our associates. Every day I’m learning something new, while being challenged to grow as both a leader and a person. My commitment is to do my job so that others can do theirs.

That said, I continue to make time for what matters—my family, my health and my growth.  I’m thankful for talkative walks with my wife, Kathy, and our dog, Kooper. Our sons, Kody and Kasey, live in different cities, but we’re connecting daily to stay in touch. I make time to exercise and read for the sake of curiosity. Finally, I am finding time for laughter and faith.

Please consider how to use this gift of time and explore what’s important to you.

Sincerely,
Kevin