A legacy of leadership: Alan Davis
Date: 29.10.25
As Trelleborg celebrates 120 years of progress, we honor the people whose unwavering dedication has defined our success. Alan Davis, a Production Manager in Rutherfordton, NC, is one of those leaders. His remarkable 44-year career is a powerful story of resilience, growth and a deep-seated commitment to the people and potential of his facility.
From the second shift to respected leader
Alan’s career began in September 1981 at Reeves Brothers, long before Trelleborg’s acquisition. Starting in the inspection department on the second shift, he quickly demonstrated his strong work ethic, learning to operate various trimming and inspection equipment. His ambition led him to take on challenging roles, including a position on the newly installed 3-roll calender, where he became a skilled operator and a respected leader among the crew.As the business grew, so did Alan's career. He advanced from shift manager to night shift manager and eventually to Calender Department Manager. In this role, his leadership was crucial in implementing key operational improvements, like installing dust boxes and adding new trimming capabilities to the calender line.
Calm in the storm
Alan’s steady leadership was never more apparent than during Hurricane Hugo in 1989. As the storm raged, he managed a team of 80+ associates through a night filled with uncertainty, as no one wanted to leave to go home. Under his calm guidance, the entire shift completed their work without a single incident, a moment that highlights his exceptional character and the profound respect he earned from his team.A belief in the future
In the years that followed, Alan took on roles as Master Scheduler, Material Control Manager, Plant Manager and eventually Production Manager. During financially turbulent times under previous ownership, some chose to leave, but Alan’s belief in the facility's potential never wavered. He stayed, confident in the value of the business and its people.
When Trelleborg acquired the facility, Alan embraced the change with optimism. He worked closely with leadership to guide the site through a significant transformation. His deep knowledge was instrumental in modernizing the manufacturing facility, removing outdated equipment, improving cleanliness and investing in new infrastructure. He helped shape its evolution from a vinyl coating facility into the modern and efficient operation it is today.
Alan Davis has been a cornerstone of the facility's success. His pride in his work, his belief in his team and his commitment to excellence have left a lasting legacy. His story is one of personal achievement and the enduring spirit that defines Trelleborg.
Discover more stories from our 120–year history and explore how we continue to shape industry from the inside: 120 year anniversary
When Trelleborg acquired the facility, Alan embraced the change with optimism. He worked closely with leadership to guide the site through a significant transformation. His deep knowledge was instrumental in modernizing the manufacturing facility, removing outdated equipment, improving cleanliness and investing in new infrastructure. He helped shape its evolution from a vinyl coating facility into the modern and efficient operation it is today.
Alan Davis has been a cornerstone of the facility's success. His pride in his work, his belief in his team and his commitment to excellence have left a lasting legacy. His story is one of personal achievement and the enduring spirit that defines Trelleborg.
Discover more stories from our 120–year history and explore how we continue to shape industry from the inside: 120 year anniversary