Schaeffer Manufacturing Company is pleased to announce the promotion of Richard Niedbalski to Vice President of Production. We need greater leadership to manage our growth. As we build out the South Plant, our Production Department will be poised for this future growth. In his new role, Rich will oversee the expansion of the South Plant, a planned increase in personnel, and the growth of future products.
Rich joined Schaeffer Manufacturing Company in 1984 as an associate in the shipping department. He moved to the grease department in 1985 where he learned the basics about manufacturing grease from Master Grease maker Mike Ryterski. Rich was a quick study and in 1986 he trained to become a grease maker. In 1989 he started running the grease department. Over the next 18 years he was trained on daily plant operations, oil blending processes, ordering raw materials and overseeing inventories.
In 2007 Rich was promoted to Plant Manager. He worked closely with his mentor, Bill Herrmann, and became responsible for daily operations of the entire plant, staff management and administrative functions.
Rich was born and raised in St. Louis. He graduated Vianney High School and attended the University of Missouri. Rich has completed numerous National Lubricating Grease Institute (NLGI) basic and advanced educational offerings. He regularly attends NLGI conferences to keep informed of the most current standards in the lubricating grease and gear lubricant industry.
Rich and his wife, Jill, have been married 10 years and reside in St. Louis. Rich has five children: Barclay (21), twins Carly and Allie (17), Ava (8) and Max (7). When Rich is not at work he is usually at an activity of the kids. Otherwise he loves to travel, golf, and read.
