LEAN LEADERS DRIVING IMPROVEMENTS ACROSS MANUFACTURING SECTOR

A unique training programme, developed inside one of the world’s most efficient motor manufacturing plants, is now driving improvements throughout the wider manufacturing sector thanks to the National Skills Academy for Manufacturing (the Skills Academy). The Lean Leaders programme has been approved by the Skills Academy - part of the Sector Skills Council for Science, Engineering and Manufacturing Technologies (Semta) - and has already helped more than 50 firms in the North East. It has achieved this by providing key personnel with the skills they need to deliver improvements across the manufacturing process and is now available to businesses across the country who want to ensure that training delivers measurable results. Originally developed at the Nissan plant in Sunderland with the help of Industry Forum - part of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) - the programme combines practical and classroom learning with outdoor team development activities. Throughout the four phases of the programme, candidates need to undertake relevant projects to demonstrate a measurable improvement in their own workplace. Explained Semta Development Director Bill Twigg: “The UK manufacturing industry faces increasing competition from a global market that demands ever higher standards when it comes to quality, cost and delivery. The only way UK manufacturers can remain competitive is by developing a culture that encourages continuous learning and the development of new skills. “The Lean Leaders Programme was developed within a company renowned for its commitment to lean manufacturing techniques. These have been proven to improve efficiency and we are confident that many other manufacturers can benefit from Nissan’s experience.” As with all Skills Academy products, the trainers delivering Lean Leaders have successfully completed a thorough validation process covering both technical knowledge and training ability. The Lean Leaders Programme covers an introduction to workshop management, continuous process improvement techniques, a practical workshop management activity and both team working and leadership skills. The programme is delivered by Nissan trainers, and candidates also benefit from spending time at the Nissan factory which is one of the most efficient in the world. The candidates are usually already working at a supervisory level within a manufacturing environment, or have been identified for promotion into such a role, and so far around 300 people from more than 50 companies have taken part. David White, Production Manager at PSM International has successfully completed the programme and said: “It was an extremely valuable programme, showing us exactly how to implement the theory. Having the skills is one thing, using them is the real challenge.” Added Bill Twigg: “The programme really does provide a candidate with the tools they need to make measurable improvements to their company’s bottom line. Businesses can also have confidence that the programme reflects the latest leading edge thinking on lean leadership and how it can improve productivity.” Further information about the Lean Leaders programme is available by contacting Semta Customer Services on 0845 643 9001. - E N D S -

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