Open to opportunities

Michael Hayes

@michaelhayes

Message

Results-driven Operations & Continuous Improvement Leader and USAF veteran.

United States

Message

What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role that allows me to leverage my extensive experience in Operations and Lean to drive impactful change and contribute to organizational success.

I am a results-driven Operations and Continuous Improvement Leader with over 35 years of experience in optimizing performance across aerospace, defense, and manufacturing industries. My journey has been marked by a commitment to excellence, where I have successfully led cross-functional teams through high-impact transformation initiatives, driving process improvements that enhance efficiency, improve quality, reduce costs, and increase profitability.

Throughout my career at Pratt & Whitney, I have achieved significant milestones, including reducing quality escapes by over 50% year over year and managing over $1.2 billion in assets. My expertise in Lean methodologies has allowed me to mentor and coach numerous professionals, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence. I am passionate about strategic planning and goal alignment, and I thrive in environments where I can leverage my extensive experience to contribute to organizational success.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Associate Director – Lean Manager

Pratt & Whitney – RTX

Jan 2019 - Jan 2025 (6 years)

Reduced quality escapes by 50%+ year over year from 2021 - 2024. Led and coached 23 CORE Professionals and 9 CORE Experts across RTX to drive lean improvements.

Operational Excellence Coaching Strategic Planning Change Management Process Improvement

Associate Director Product Line Manager

Pratt & Whitney – RTX

Dec 2016 - Dec 2018 (2 years)

Managed and sold $1.2B+ in assets across F135, F100, and GG8 engine programs. Achieved an 11.5% reduction in assembly build hours through Lean methodologies.

Program Management Customer Relationship Management Asset Management Strategic Planning

Associate Director – Discipline Chief

Pratt & Whitney – RTX

Dec 2006 - Nov 2016 (9 years 11 months)

Led Lean initiatives across 20 Original Equipment Manufacture sites, reporting to the SVP of Operations. Directed a team of 8 CI professionals, implementing operational excellence initiatives.

Lean Implementation Operational Excellence Continuous Improvement Team Leadership Project Management

Associate Director – C.I. Manager, MRO

Pratt & Whitney – RTX

Dec 2002 - Nov 2006 (3 years 11 months)

Spearheaded the Lean transformation for a $160M P&L business unit. Managed 75 hourly & 8 salaried employees across: Environmental, Health & Safety, Machine Tool Services, Facilities & Services, and Lean functions.

P&L management Team Management Facilities Management Continuous Improvement

Business Unit Manager CT. Repair Ops.

Pratt & Whitney – RTX

Dec 2000 - Nov 2002 (1 year 11 months)

Led a $15M P&L aftermarket repair business, supporting international customers. Reduced turnaround time by 50%+ and lead time by 65%.

Process Improvement Welding Laser Dyne

Cell Leader

Pratt & Whitney – RTX

Feb 1999 - Sep 2001 (2 years 7 months)

Managed engine overhaul operations for JT9D, PW2000, and V2500. Overhauled PW4000, V2500, F117, and JT8D engines.

Engine Overhauls Operations Management Quality Control Technical Troubleshooting Team Leadership

Crew Chief – KC-135A

United States Air Force

Oct 1985 - Apr 1989 (3 years 6 months)

Managed and maintained strategic aerial refueling aircraft in high-tempo operations. Ensured operational readiness and mission success through meticulous maintenance and leadership.

Team Leadership Technical Troubleshooting KC 135A

Education

Degrees, certifications, and relevant coursework

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Bachelor of Science, Aeronautics

Completed a Bachelor of Science in Aeronautics with a minor in Aviation Safety. This program provided a comprehensive understanding of aviation principles and safety protocols.