Steel Toes and Stilettos

The authors joined forces professionally when Kathy hired Shannon to be a member of her leadership team. This book describes the transformation they led to convert operations from traditional manufacturing to a lean enterprise. Kathy, executive leader responsible for profitability, and Shannon, transformation leader, share the finer points of a comprehensive change process, the challenges and triumphs, and the real emotion involved during their quest for success. Each describes the professional journey from their unique perspective and the highlights of an endearing friendship that was formed along the way. This story will inspire female leaders in any organization, showcasing an example of high-performing women thriving in an intense and fast-paced world. Kathy and Shannon are role models for those juggling vigorous, fulfilling careers alongside life's complexities such as dual-career marriages and raising children. Their story provides a powerful case study of women supporting each other in the workplace to drive positive culture and significantly improved business results through leading with authenticity and inclusivity. This book can be read as a narrative account or used an implementation guide for a lean transformation. It shares some of the organizational and cultural roadblocks that arise during the implementation process and how the authors overcame them to create real change and drive business performance results.