In this episode of the Operations Science Podcast, host Edward Pound sits down with Oscar Sroor, a global operations leader based in Bordeaux, France, to explore what it really takes to achieve sustainable operational excellence.

With experience spanning manufacturing, medical devices, FMCG, and global supply chains, Oscar shares his journey from classic lean initiatives to leading large-scale business transformations. The conversation goes beyond tools and frameworks, focusing on structured thinking, scientific discipline, cultural adaptation, and systems-level improvement.

Key topics include:

• Why lean tools alone aren’t enough

This episode is essential listening for operations leaders, continuous improvement professionals, transformation leaders, and executives who want to move beyond surface-level optimization and build systems that truly perform.

Timestamps -

00:00 Trailer

00:47 Meet Our Guest: Oscar Sroor

01:31 Oscar's Continuous Improvement Journey

02:30 Explaining Operational Roles and Challenges

04:13 Transforming Business Processes

06:55 Standardizing Tender Processes

09:50 Measuring and Improving Tender Responses

15:31 Doubling Factory Capacity

17:37 Optimizing Distribution Networks

20:30 ERP Systems and Operational Decisions

27:16 Trainer Development and Kaizen Facilitation

28:41 Measuring Cultural Maturity in Lean Practices

29:39 Challenges in Training Facilitators

32:15 Communication and Cultural Adaptation in Europe

36:35 AI and Industry 4.0

41:58 Oscar Sroor's Journey and Influences

45:16 Balancing Work and Family Life

47:44 Podcast Conclusion and Call to Action

#OperationsScience #OperationalExcellence #ContinuousImprovement #BusinessTransformation #LeanThinking #ProcessImprovement