This session explores how small and medium-sized manufacturers can apply Lean principles to non-production areas—such as scheduling, purchasing, inventory control, and customer service—to improve operational efficiency across the entire value stream.
Major topics will include:
How to identify and eliminate waste in administrative and support workflows
Visual tools to improve coordination between office and production teams
Adapting core Lean methods like 5S and value stream mapping to non-manufacturing processes
Real-world examples of Lean success in SMB manufacturing environments
Call to Action/Takeaway: Attendees will gain a practical framework for extending Lean into office and support functions and get the same resulting waste reduction, flow improvement, and smoother communication they’ve experienced through shopfloor application.
Presenter
Jeremy Smith
Technical Specialist
Jeremy Smith is a lean manufacturing and continuous improvement specialist at IMEC with more than 10 years of experience in complex automotive electronics manufacturing. He partners with Illinois manufacturers to improve operational performance, strengthen production systems, and implement sustainable continuous improvement initiatives that drive measurable results.
Jeremy brings global manufacturing experience, having worked with cross-functional teams across multiple countries to align strategy, improve productivity, and build high-performing operations. His value stream–focused approach helps manufacturers identify opportunities, eliminate waste, and implement structured systems that improve efficiency, quality, and supply chain performance.
At IMEC, Jeremy helps organizations apply lean tools, data analysis, and structured problem-solving methods to maximize return on investment and build cultures of continuous improvement.
Expertise Lean Transformation & Continuous Improvement Value Stream Mapping & Production Flow Optimization Strategy Deployment & Productivity Improvement Visual Management & Shop Floor Systems Supply Chain & Supplier Performance Improvement Six Sigma Problem Solving
Certifications & Credentials Six Sigma Black Belt B.S., Materials Science & Engineering – University of Illinois
Impact Snapshot Delivered 16M in cost savings through structured continuous improvement initiatives Strengthened operational performance through value stream optimization Improved productivity, quality, and production flow using lean methodologies Supported sustainable performance improvements through data-driven decision making.
