Ryan Wasko

Background

About Ryan Wasko

WHO I AM I’m a business transformation leader with over 20 years of experience driving operational excellence, market-aligned strategy, and scalable growth. With a background in Industrial & Systems Engineering and Six Sigma Master Black Belt certification, I bring a systems-thinking approach to solving complex challenges across high-impact industries. WHAT I DO Currently pursuing my MBA at UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School, I serve as Director of Continuous Improvement at JR Automation (a Hitachi Group Company), where I lead global strategic initiatives that strengthen performance, build high-performing teams, and align internal capabilities with customer value. CORE STRENGTHS • Operational transformation across automotive, defense, aerospace, medical, food & beverage, and consumer products • Executive coaching and team development rooted in continuous improvement • Cross-functional collaboration that integrates people, process, and strategy TOP ACHIEVEMENTS • Recovered throughput from 26% to 100% for Coca-Cola’s largest distribution center by aligning operations, supply chain, and sales • Led a plant turnaround that became a model for operational excellence through systems-level coaching • Designed and deployed programs that deliver both internal efficiency and external market relevance GUIDING PRINCIPLES • Turning complexity into clarity through systems thinking and storytelling • Empowering people through culture-building, coaching, and aligned leadership • Integrating operational rigor with strategic growth to drive sustainable impact GIVING BACK Mentor with Vanderbilt University’s Wond’ry Program, helping cultivate the next generation of problem solvers and innovation leaders across Middle Tennessee. I’m always open to conversations about operational transformation, scalable leadership, and mentoring the next generation of problem solvers. Let’s connect!