Manufacturing Greatness | Productivity | Retention | Profits | Continuous Improvement | Safety | Workforce Development | Labor Challenges | Skills Gaps | Industry 4.0
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Now, let's jump in!
In this episode, Monica Rothgery, former Taco Bell general manager and former chief operating officer of KFC US, shares insights on manufacturing leadership, frontline leadership, and employee engagement for Operations Managers, Production Managers, Manufacturing Managers, and Shift Supervisors.
Drawing from her book Lessons from the Drive Thru, Monica explains how curiosity, vulnerability, and authentic leadership strengthen trust building and accountability. You will learn practical strategies to improve communication skills, support your team, and create manufacturing cultures where people feel valued, connected, and motivated to perform.
2:00 – Frontlines leaders often feel the need to jump in and fix problems themselves, rather than letting their team figure it out
4:00 – Shift your mindset to emphasize coaching and supporting, not micromanaging
7:00 – Practice servant leadership through supporting and recognizing your team
13:00 – Instead of just providing instructions, look for ways to observe and provide feedback
15:00 – When problems occur, have deep and curious conversations to find the root of the issue
19:00 – Training is often seen as the problem, but a lack of support can also lead to performance issues
22:00 – All employees are unique and have different standards, so be curious to find out the kind of support and recognition they need
Connect with Monica Rothgery