In an era marked by volatility, inflation, and mounting operational complexity, global manufacturers are being asked one urgent question by their boards and investors: "Where are we losing value—and what should we fix first?"...

Many finance leaders are flying blind regarding operational losses. Despite decades of investment in Lean, Six Sigma, MES, and ERP systems, the enterprise still lacks one critical thing: a standardized, scalable, financially actionable view of loss across its factory network....

When strategy is treated as a slick, top-down exercise—think a static consulting report that leadership loves but frontline teams barely buy into—it typically ends up gathering dust. This disconnect isn’t due to a lack of good intentions; it stems from the fact that those who execute the strategy rarely own it. They see page after page of metrics and proposals that “look great on paper” but don’t match their daily reality. In contrast, truly impactful organizational change begins by letting people shape the very targets and solutions they are accountable for delivering....

In manufacturing, where precision, collaboration, and efficiency are critical, effective leadership is the foundation of success. The demands of the industry are unique, with teams operating under tight deadlines, managing complex systems, and navigating ever-evolving technologies. Leadership in manufacturing requires more than technical expertise; it demands the ability to empower teams, foster a culture of continuous improvement, and balance productivity with engagement....