About us
Guardian Bandsaw has been designed by the team at KANDO. We are experts in building Smart Machines. We partner with industry leaders to create products that leverage technology to redefine what is possible.
We support our customers to set the benchmark in their industry from initial feasibility analysis and concept development through to installation and service.
Our people
Keith has over 25 years’ experience in automation, covering a wide range of industries. He is passionate about working with clients to understand their needs and delivering innovative solutions that drive progress through advanced automation. Keith has an NZCE in Mechanical Engineering.
With a PhD in Physics and Electronic Engineering, Shaun is an expert at machine learning for meat robotics systems. With thirteen years of experience in this industry, Shaun oversees and develops our software and control systems. When he’s not working, he heads outdoors to cycle and kayak.
Steve has over 20 years of executive experience managing profit and loss for international technology & manufacturing companies. He has a strong track record of driving growth, leading action-oriented teams, and delivering results, including managing a $100M+ division at a publicly traded company. When he's not working, he enjoys traveling to new destinations with his wife.
Ken has a strong international marketing and primary industry background with a degree in agricultural science, as well as international sales and marketing experience gained while working for Fonterra. Returning to New Zealand, Ken joined Pernod Ricard as Production Director and most recently Ken was a shareholder and Managing Director of Superb Herb, an innovative horticultural business. Ken is a keen sportsman having played rugby into his 40s but more recently, concentrating on snowboarding, scuba diving and fishing.
With degrees in Property and Finance (BCOM,BPROP) from the University of Auckland. Nicholas operates out of the Guardian Omaha office. Nicholas is focused on providing the right Guardian solution to customers. A keen surfer who’s working on his golf swing due to a lack of waves in Omaha.
With a BE (Honors) in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Joseph is proficient at troubleshooting electrical and pneumatics systems. He manages and motivates the production team, ensuring that projects are completed efficiently and with excellence. Outside of work, he is a professional tenpin bowler.
Shaun holds a Trade Certificate in Manufacturing and Tool Making. With extensive experience developing race car parts, Shaun manages the manufacture of all production and development components. Outside of work, Shaun races in New Zealand’s GT1 racing category.
With an M.Sc. in Computer Science and over 20 years’ experience in specialist software engineering, Nicholas is responsible for developing our suite of products which require computer vision-based solutions. Outside work, he enjoys distance running and rock climbing.
After finishing university, Carlotta worked in Guardian's spare parts department. Now based in Auckland, Carlotta oversees the after sales support team and is passionate about everyone having the best Guardian experience. When not working, she enjoys getting outdoors and spending time at New Zealand’s beautiful beaches.
With a background in defense, mining and food processing, Matt brings a broad range of experience in machine design, product development and project management. Matt is responsible for overseeing the design and development of Guardian machinery, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within scope and within budget. Matt holds a PhD in mechatronics engineering.
With 25+ years of experience in the meat processing equipment industry, Mike joins our team as Sales Specialist (Protein). Mike has a hands-on approach to problem solving and providing solutions to meet customers’ equipment needs. Mike enjoys traveling, biking, playing ice hockey and hiking.
As an experienced professional in industrial sales, Leon has a passion for building strong client relationships & driving business growth. His blend of professional dedication and personal fulfillment drives him to excel in every aspect of his life. Outside work, he enjoys sports and spending quality time with his son. His newest hobby is cooking.
Bradley boasts over 25 years of experience leading manufacturing teams in reliability, automation, and maintenance management. With a degree in industrial electronics technology and a specialization in electronics engineering, he excels at diagnosing and resolving technical issues for clients. Bradley prioritizes safety, quality, and service. When not traveling with Guardian, he enjoys spending time in central Virginia with his family, working on classic car restorations, and gardening.
Guardian Bandsaw:
Redefining safety
“Reliable performance, customer-focused support, and uncompromising safety”
The journey to creating the next generation bandsaw began in 2015. Our aim was to develop a product with reliable performance, customer-focused support, and uncompromising safety features. Guardian Bandsaw was developed in partnership with New Zealand’s meat processing industry.
“Guardian bandsaw was designed from the ground-up”
We developed a patented vision detection system coupled with a purpose-built stainless steel band saw. Rather than tweaking an existing commercial band saw, the Guardian was designed from the ground up, enabling us to incorporate innovative features based on years of experience in the meat processing industry.