I had the insightful opportunity to chat with Craig Karrani, the Continuous Improvement Manager at AKD. Here’s what we discussed about his experiences and insights into continuous improvement and leadership:

📍Q: What are some of the most significant challenges you have faced in implementing continuous improvement initiatives, and how have you overcome them?

Craig: “In my three to four years focusing on continuous improvement, the biggest hurdle has always been getting people genuinely ready for change. It’s one thing for teams to agree to change theoretically, but the practical application tends to reveal resistance. My approach to overcoming this resistance involves thorough data gathering and demonstrating the tangible benefits of proposed changes. When people see the evidence for themselves, it becomes easier to believe in the process and engage with the necessary adjustments.”

📍Q: Could you share the key strategies that helped you transition from an operations and production manager to the role of Continuous Improvement Manager at AKD Softwoods?

Craig: “The transition was anchored by the transferable skills I developed in previous roles—particularly, a deep understanding of processes and operations. Knowing what ‘good’ looks like in production and having firsthand operational experience provided me with the credibility needed to influence change. This background has been crucial in bridging the gap between strategic improvement initiatives and their practical impacts on the floor.”

📍Q: What advice would you give to someone aspiring to step into a leadership role in operations or continuous improvement?

Craig: “Consistency is key. Be fair and honest with your team. You won’t always have all the answers, but maintaining a consistent approach in your decision-making can build a strong foundation of trust. People need to know you’re equitable and unwavering in your methods, even if they don’t always agree with you.”

📍Q: One message for the world?

Craig: “Only look back to learn from your experiences and use those lessons to shape your future. It’s about moving forward with purpose, informed by the past but not bound by it.”

✨Key Takeaways:

Craig’s journey underscores the importance of credibility and firsthand experience in driving effective change within an organisation. His focus on evidence-based strategies and consistent leadership highlights how essential it is to align team perceptions with organisational goals to foster a culture of continuous improvement.