Mel Bailey
About Mel Bailey
Mel Bailey serves as the Vice President of Production Operations at Kratos Defense and Security Solutions, where he leads various operational organizations. He has extensive experience in quality management and manufacturing operations, having held key positions at companies such as Honeywell Aerospace, Bell Helicopter, and Flex.
Work at Kratos Defense and Security Solutions
Mel Bailey serves as the Vice President of Production Operations at Kratos Defense and Security Solutions. He has held this position since 2018, overseeing production operations in the Sacramento, California area. In this role, he leads various organizations, including Production Operations, Procurement, Manufacturing Engineering/Process Engineering, Facilities, Environmental Health & Safety, and Material Management. His responsibilities encompass managing aircraft manufacturing sites, ensuring operational efficiency, and maintaining high standards of quality and safety.
Previous Experience at Honeywell Aerospace
Before joining Kratos, Mel Bailey worked at Honeywell Aerospace as the Site Quality Director from 2008 to 2011. During his tenure in Albuquerque, New Mexico, he focused on quality assurance processes and compliance, contributing to the organization's commitment to maintaining high standards in aerospace manufacturing.
Education and Expertise
Mel Bailey has a diverse educational background. He earned an Associate of Applied Science in Mechanical Technology from Farmingdale State College. He also holds a Master of Science in Management of Technology from the University of Miami and an Executive MBA from Texas Christian University's M.J. Neeley School of Business. Additionally, he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Professional Business Management from Nova Southeastern University. His education complements his expertise in quality assurance, manufacturing operations, and process improvement methodologies.
Background in Aerospace and Defense
Mel Bailey has extensive experience in the aerospace and defense sectors. Prior to his current role, he served as the Global Director of Quality at Flex from 2012 to 2017 and as the Director of Quality Operations at Bell Helicopter from 2003 to 2006. He also worked at McDonnell Douglas for 11 years as the Senior Manager of Product Assurance Engineering & Technical Support. His background includes a strong focus on managing product manufacturing relocations and ensuring compliance with ISO-9000 and AS9100 standards.
Achievements in Quality Management
Throughout his career, Mel Bailey has demonstrated a commitment to quality management and operational excellence. He employs methodologies such as Gemba and Kaizen Events to drive continuous improvement. His expertise includes Supplier Quality Management and Supply Chain Localization, optimizing supplier performance, and enhancing manufacturing efficiency. He specializes in manufacturing facility transitions, ensuring smooth relocations and integration of production operations across various environments.