Robert Ballard

About Robert Ballard

Blessed beyond measure. I am an experienced and dedicated Master Black Belt with a strong background in continuous improvement, operational excellence, and strategic project leadership. Skilled in deploying both DFSS and DMAIC methodologies across diverse business environments, with a focus on driving measurable results, enhancing organizational performance, and building long-term capability. Proven expertise in designing and implementing operating systems, leading cross-functional initiatives, and developing training programs that support sustainable improvement. Passionate about mentoring and coaching individuals at all levels, fostering a culture of learning, accountability, and innovation. Recognized for the ability to align improvement efforts with key performance indicators, deliver impactful outcomes, and contribute to enterprise-wide success through disciplined methodology and strategic insight.

Experience

1. Senior Analyst Program Manager

   Implementation Engineers

   Jun 2017 — Present

   Food and Beverage - Optimized manufacturing/supply chain by leading operational excellence initiatives across multiple manufacturing business units and distribution.Automotive – Led Cross-Functional team at a Tier 1 Automotive supplier that reduced lead-time by 50% using Lean Visual Material Flow.Aerospace / Defense – Facilitated Lean workshops for middle management and operations personnel. Designed future state value streams that reduced lead time by more than 53% and reduced WIP by 62%. Developed visual flow throughout the value stream along with a visual factory in operations. Implemented facility design from an Engineering and Research laboratory to a manufacturing throughput-focused operation.Flooring – Directed quality engineering and continuous improvement projects that reduced cost, improved quality, and increased throughput. Started a Lean Six Sigma program in the commercial division as well as in sales and marketing. Generated more than $46 million in verifiable cost savings and margin improvement over a six-year period through the use of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies.Mining – Directed activities in multiple mining environments. Led cross-functional teams to effectively develop and execute Lean / Six Sigma initiatives, resulting in a 40% increase in productivity and a 52% reduction in downtime.Heavy Machining – Taught Value Stream Mapping and designed autonomous Lean value streams that created visual flow, improved lead time, reduced WIP, and improved on-time delivery. Used Production Preparation Process (3P) to design new plant layout, Lean work cells, and improved visual flow resulting in a 48% reduction in lead time.

Education

• Troy University Dothan

  Pre Engineering

  1985 — 1988

• George C. Wallace State College

  Associates in Applied Science degree

  1981 — 1983

• Auburn University

  Bachelor of Science

  1988 — 1991