Bill Cloke

Director of Operations and Training

Functional and industry experience 

Bill is responsible for helping manufacturing and distribution clients improve processes and ensure profitable growth. His career encompasses more than 25 years of diverse industry exposure in both consulting and line management. A seasoned analyst and facilitator, Bill’s work experience has given him practical skills in process improvement, re-engineering, strategic planning, team building and training.

Project experience:

• Assessments: Conducted comprehensive diagnostics of operations in food processing, pharmaceuticals, miniaturized electronics, automotive parts, electrical motors, vehicle assembly, physical security, printing, incubators, zinc die casting, tool-making, wire and cable, aluminum and steel, using structured interviews, process mapping, focus groups and problem-solving teams. Developed realistic performance improvement programs.
• Lean manufacturing: Trained and facilitated supervisors in a value-stream mapping exercise to identify waste. Developed training materials and led Kaizen events to dramatically improve processes in pharmaceuticals, textiles, government, and paper products.
• Training: Developed and delivered training programs in lean manufacturing, Kaizen, balanced scorecard, performance measurement, total quality management, business process improvement and change management. Taught operations management and critical thinking at Sheridan College.
• Strategic planning: Designed and facilitated management retreats for strategic planning. Facilitated teams developing balanced scorecards to support strategy.
• Culture change: Conducted diagnostic interviews and facilitated the senior management team to develop a “people” plan for culture change. Led workshops to redefine supervisory roles, develop communication plans and design a performance management system. Conducted a needs assessment and designed a training plan. Provided coaching for managers and supervisors.

Professional designations and memberships

Bill is a Certified Management Consultant and a Professional Engineer and serves on the Canadian Board of the Association for Manufacturing Excellence.