Joe Flora
About Joe Flora
Joe Flora serves as the Director of Product Development at Spectrum Brands, where he has worked since 2011. He specializes in the design and management of commercial products for the aquatic pet market and has a background in Lean Manufacturing and technical software.
Work at Spectrum Brands
Joe Flora has served as the Director of Product Development at Spectrum Brands since 2011. In this role, he focuses on the Pet, Home, and Garden sectors within the Commercial Division. His tenure at Spectrum Brands spans over 13 years, during which he has contributed to the development of various commercial products, particularly for the aquatic pet market. He collaborates with major retailers, including Wal-Mart, Petco, and Petsmart, to ensure product alignment with market needs.
Previous Experience at United Pet Group
Prior to his current position, Joe Flora worked at United Pet Group as the Director of Operations from 1998 to 2010. His 12 years in this role allowed him to gain significant operational experience in the pet industry. This background has equipped him with insights into product management and operational efficiency, which he applies in his current role at Spectrum Brands.
Education and Expertise
Joe Flora has formal training in Lean Manufacturing, which supports his focus on process improvement. His expertise extends to a diverse range of technical skills, including proficiency in Enterprise Resource Planning (SAP) systems and computer-aided drafting software such as AutoCad and Solidworks. This technical knowledge enhances his ability to oversee product development effectively.
Advocacy for Employee Empowerment
In his leadership role, Joe Flora advocates for empowering employees to make independent decisions. He encourages team members to share their ideas within the organization, fostering a collaborative environment that promotes innovation and engagement. This approach contributes to a positive workplace culture and enhances overall productivity.
Collaboration with Testing Agencies
Joe Flora has extensive experience working with independent product testing agencies, including UL, ETL, and CSA. His collaboration with these organizations ensures that the products developed under his guidance meet safety and quality standards, which is crucial in the pet product industry.