John Rooney

John is a highly experienced manufacturing leader, recognised for his expertise in quality systems, continuous improvement (CIP), Lean, and Lean Six Sigma. His ability to implement and accelerate process improvements, combined with a strategic mindset and hands-on leadership style, has consistently delivered results. A motivational leader, he has successfully developed and led high-performing teams, inspiring them to achieve operational excellence.

John Rooney has dedicated over 40 years to the automotive industry, holding senior leadership positions at General Motors, Vauxhall Motors Ltd, Opel, and Stellantis (formerly PSA). Beginning his career in the late 1970s as a fine measuring room apprentice, he quickly advanced, reaching executive level by the age of 29. Throughout his career, he has played a key role in Quality, Production, Engineering, Supplier Quality, and Kaizen, with first-hand experience in automotive and engine manufacturing plants across Europe, Brazil, the USA, China, and South Korea.

In 2018, after 40 years in the automotive sector, John transitioned into consulting and training, collaborating with multiple organisations, including the International Lean Six Sigma Institute. His work has focused on:
✔ Lean transformation
✔ Lean Six Sigma implementation
✔ Leadership development
✔ CIP workshops

John’s approach is practical and results-driven, ensuring businesses not only understand Lean principles but apply them effectively to achieve lasting improvements.

In 2022, John co-founded JRC Learn to be Lean, partnering with a fellow automotive industry executive. Their vision: to share their decades of expertise and guide businesses on their Lean journey.

With over 90 years of combined experience, they support organisations that:
🔹 Lack prior Lean experience and need expert guidance
🔹 Have struggled with Lean adoption and require a fresh approach
🔹 Seek leadership training to embed a culture of continuous improvement

Their mission is to change traditional mindsets, introducing new tools, techniques, and strategies to unlock breakthrough moments—where teams see the real potential of Lean methodologies. Driven by purpose, enthusiasm, and deep industry knowledge, they work alongside businesses to ensure sustainable change and measurable success.

JRC Learn to be Lean has worked with a range of high-profile clients, including:
✅ Aston Martin
✅ Frimpeks Europe
✅ Sanko Gosia
✅ Magna International
✅ Grupo Antolin
✅ Alexander Dennis
✅ Bentley

A Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, John is committed to driving operational excellence through:
🔹 Hands-on involvement in improvement initiatives
🔹 Fostering collaboration and teamwork at all levels
🔹 Identifying and implementing sustainable process improvements
🔹 Training and empowering individuals to succeed

Academic & Professional Achievements

• Postgraduate Degree in Business
• Diploma in Management Studies
• HNC in Mechanical & Production Engineering
• ONC in Mechanical & Production Engineering
• General Motors President’s Honours Award

John Rooney’s career is defined by practical experience, strategic vision, and a relentless pursuit of improvement. Through JRC Learn to be Lean, he continues to inspire, coach, and equip organisations to achieve world-class operational excellence.