John Hardy

I’m a results-oriented production and materials management leader with extensive automotive manufacturing experience, focused on strengthening safety and quality while optimizing processes. I’m known for improving throughput and reducing waste by applying Lean principles, 5S, and GMS methodologies.

In my current role as a Material Controls Supervisor at Ford Motor Company, I lead, mentor, and train teams across receiving, shipping, and warehousing to ensure productivity and adherence to best practices. I help develop new processes and strategies, generate reports, maintain inventory metrics, and use those insights to identify improvement opportunities.

Previously, I served as a Production Manager at General Motors and an Operations Manager at THA Hydraulics, where I led daily operations, applied Global Manufacturing System (GMS) and Lean Manufacturing principles, and coached teams on standardized work and continuous improvement. Across roles, I’ve supported initiatives that improved safety scores and stabilized production flow, and I bring a strong people-development mindset from leading teams of 8 to 50+ employees.