Lean webinar
2.Auditing Mars
How have the panel addressed the needs of managers having to learn to lead in a lean environment? What competencies require the most focus? Submitted by Malcolm Watson
Jeremy Praud: “The hallmark of a lean environment is that the whole organisation is striving to improve. This means that managers need to move from a traditional ‘tell’ style of management, to understanding that their role is to work the levers of empowerment that will enable their teams to perform. The change in day-to-day style is particularly marked for the front line manager.
“A business concerned about addressing the needs of its managers on the lean journey typically realises the much increased importance of the front line manager having core competencies in motivation techniques, effective delegation, and giving and receiving feedback – things which can be ignored to a degree under ‘command and control’, but are essential to empowering teams in a lean environment.”
Simon Spanyol: “As part of rolling out a lean programme, it is vital that the management team are trained first as they will need to support the rollout down the organisation. This training is also a great opportunity for the senior team to calculate the benefits and objectives of the programme.
As well as tools and techniques there is no doubt that once the personnel on the lines understand and are using measures to drive improvements, the role of your managers’ changes.
“If your front line managers have not had any training in what motivates people, leadership styles, etc. then a lean rollout is a great opportunity to develop their leadership skills to support what will ultimately be a more sophisticated and engaged workforce.”