Blake Weiss

Background

About Blake Weiss

I have begun everything with the idea that I could succeed, and I never had much patience with the multitudes of people who are always ready to explain why one cannot succeed.” ~Booker T. Washington This quote resonates with me because I truly believe that success begins with a belief in yourself and your team. While I am an optimist by nature, I have also worked my entire career to master the leadership skills, mindset, and character to overcome challenges in the toughest of times. Having served in the US Marine Corps (Weapons Specialist/E-4) and completed NCO leadership training, I live by their core leadership principles, starting with knowing myself and always seeking self-improvement. Also important is commitment and teamwork—regardless of differences—in accomplishing any mission. These core beliefs, and resilience, have allowed me to become a transformational leader in manufacturing (Plant Director/Manager). As the printing industry was declining, it became increasingly difficult for companies to stay afloat. Resources were scarce, the sales market was diminishing, and I had to design strategies to achieve more with less. Leveraging my expertise in LEAN SIX SIGMA and other MANAGEMENT METHODOLOGIES, including CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT, 5S, DAILY LEAN MANAGEMENT, FIFO, and KPIs, I delivered operational turnarounds for 8 underperforming plants, taking them from the red to profitability. As a constant learner, I have championed the importance of leadership training and development for my teams. I enjoy coaching and mentoring others and have helped numerous people achieve career promotions, including to VP levels. I have a situational leadership style and am able to adapt my approach to each unique individual and situation. This has served me well in building strong internal/external stakeholder relationships, including with CEOs of customer organizations.