Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Accomplishments
Languages
Certification
Interests and Activities:
Timeline
Generic
Adam Crofton

Adam Crofton

Edmonton,Canada

Summary

Process Improvement Leader | Operational Excellence | Health & Safety Leadership

I help organizations improve performance by strengthening processes, enabling teams, and embedding a culture of safety and continuous improvement.

With 16+ years of experience across manufacturing, distribution, retail, electrical, and mining sectors in Europe and Canada, I bring a pragmatic, results‑driven approach to operational excellence. I hold a B.Sc. in Building Surveying and have built my career at the intersection of process discipline, frontline execution, and safety‑focused leadership.

My expertise is rooted in Lean Six Sigma and applied operations management. I specialize in diagnosing root causes, eliminating waste, and designing scalable, sustainable processes that improve efficiency while protecting people and customers.

I have led end‑to‑end improvement initiatives across complex operational value streams, including supply chain, logistics, inventory management, production support, and branch operations. I regularly apply tools such as value stream mapping, Kaizen, SIPOC, standard work, visual management, and KPI development to improve flow, reduce variation, and deliver measurable results.

As a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, I take a data‑driven, structured approach to problem‑solving—combining operational metrics, financial insight, and frontline engagement to translate strategic objectives into practical improvement plans. I am particularly effective at bridging the gap between strategy and execution, ensuring improvements are embedded into day‑to‑day operations and sustained over time.

Change leadership is central to my work. I partner closely with cross‑functional leaders and frontline teams to build alignment, coach through change, and create ownership at all levels of the organization.

I bring hands‑on operational leadership experience supported by strong systems knowledge, including, AutoStore, VBM, VLM & ERP systems, Infor (SX & M3), JDA, and Power BI, to improve visibility, support decision‑making, and enable profitable growth.

Selected career highlights:

- Delivered measurable cost savings and logistics improvements through Lean Six Sigma initiatives

- Led cross‑functional teams to improve operational performance, reliability, and safety outcomes

- Recognized for strong OH&S leadership; certified in WHMIS, TDG, and First Aid

I am passionate about building safe, high‑performing operations where people, processes, and performance align. Always open to meaningful connections, sharing insights, and collaborating on operational excellence.

Overview

1
1
Certification
16
16
years of professional experience

Work History

Process Improvement Specialist

Finning CAT
04.2026 - Current

Process Improvement Lead | Operational Excellence | Lean & Continuous Improvement | Driving Efficiency & Sustainable Change

  • Lead end‑to‑end process improvement initiatives across operational and support functions, driving measurable improvements in efficiency, quality, and cost while aligning with Finning and CAT operational excellence standards.
  • Partner with leaders and frontline teams across operations, supply chain, maintenance, and finance to identify performance gaps, prioritize high‑impact opportunities, and implement sustainable process improvements.
  • Apply Lean and continuous improvement methodologies—including value stream mapping, Kaizen, root‑cause analysis, and SOP standardization—to reduce waste, improve flow, and increase throughput.
  • Facilitate current‑state and future‑state process design workshops, enabling practical, frontline‑driven solutions and accelerating adoption of new processes.
  • Establish performance metrics, KPIs, and visual management tools to track improvement outcomes, support data‑driven decisions, and drive accountability at all levels.
  • Support change management by translating complex process changes into simple, executable actions for operational teams.
  • Coach and mentor teams in structured problem‑solving and continuous improvement practices, helping embed a culture of operational excellence.

Regional Operations Manager

Gescan / Sonepar
05.2018 - 03.2026
  • Led national OH&S initiatives, achieving 100% compliance across 29 branches and reducing workplace incidents for 3 consecutive years.
  • Developed and implemented standardized policies and procedures, improving operational consistency and reducing process audit findings by 50%.
  • Optimized inventory control systems, reducing shrink by 3% annually and improving accuracy by 12%.
  • Directed Capex planning and facility upgrades, delivering projects 2% under budget and ahead of schedule.
  • Designed and deployed SharePoint and Power Apps solutions, streamlining workflows and cutting administrative time by 8%.
  • Managed ERP system enhancements (Infor SX), including UAT testing for RF scanners and Web UI, improving system reliability and user adoption by 75%.
  • Championed Lean Six Sigma projects, driving process improvements that increased efficiency by 5% in operational costs.
  • Oversaw BPI performance management, implementing scorecard reporting that improved KPI visibility and accountability across the region by 6%.
  • Delivered comprehensive training programs, enhancing team competency and reducing onboarding time by 50%.

District Operations Trainer

Bed Bath & Beyond / buy buy BABY
06.2010 - 05.2018

Retail Leadership Roles (2010 – 2018)

Store Manager | Operations Manager | Assistant Store Manager | Customer Service Manager | Department Manager | Shipping/Receiving Manager

  • Directed daily operations for a high-volume retail locations across western Canada, achieving annual sales growth of 5% and maintaining customer satisfaction scores above 85%.
  • Implemented inventory control strategies that reduced shrink and improved stock accuracy by 20%.
  • Managed P&L responsibilities, consistently delivering budget adherence and cost savings of 2%.
  • Streamlined operational workflows, reducing processing time by 10% and improving overall efficiency.
  • Oversaw compliance with health and safety standards, achieving minimal lost-time incidents during tenure.
  • Led cross-functional teams to execute seasonal and promotional strategies, driving incremental increase in revenue annually.
  • Supported store leadership in achieving sales targets and operational KPIs, contributing to 6 consecutive quarters of growth.
  • Trained and coached staff, reducing turnover by 15% and improving team productivity.
  • Coordinated logistics and replenishment processes, ensuring 90%+ on-time stock availability for peak seasons.
  • Elevated customer experience by implementing service protocols, resulting in a 21% increase in customer satisfaction scores.
  • Resolved escalated issues efficiently, reducing complaint resolution.
  • Developed and delivered training programs for front-line staff, improving service consistency and reducing onboarding.
  • Managed merchandising and inventory for key departments, achieving sales growth and reducing out-of-stock occurrences.
  • Optimized product placement strategies, increasing impulse purchases by 5%.
  • Directed inbound and outbound logistics, improving dock-to-shelf time.
  • Implemented inventory tracking systems, reducing discrepancies.
  • Negotiated vendor delivery schedules, ensuring 85% compliance with replenishment timelines.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Building Surveying (Hon’s)

Dundalk Institute of Technology
Ireland
01-2009

Skills

  • Leadership & Team Development: Proven ability to lead, coach, and motivate branch teams; adept at building productive business relationships across departments and leadership levels
  • Decision-Making & Influence: Demonstrates solid judgment and decision-making skills; capable of influencing others to ensure support and alignment
  • Organizational & Priority Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage priorities effectively; proficient in resource allocation
  • Process Improvement & Quality Management: Expertise in 6S methodology design and implementation; certified in Lean Six Sigma Yellow and Green Belt, demonstrating commitment to continuous improvement and operational excellence
  • Facilities & Operations Management: Comprehensive experience overseeing IT infrastructure, building maintenance, recruitment, and staff development, ensuring seamless facility operations
  • Operational Workflow Optimization: Skilled in analyzing and enhancing operational workflows to improve efficiency and productivity across various departments
  • Health & Safety Compliance: Certified in WHMIS and Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG); completed Basic and Advanced First Aid training through St John Ambulance, ensuring adherence to occupational health and safety standards

Accomplishments

  • Reduced operational costs by 8% through implementation of Lean Six Sigma process improvements and workflow optimization.
  • Improved inventory accuracy by 12% by developing advanced Excel tracking systems and integrating ERP solutions.
  • Enhanced safety compliance by 25% by leading OH&S audits and training programs, resulting in zero decrease in lost-time incidents for 3 consecutive years.
  • Accelerated project delivery timelines by 15% through strategic resource allocation and SharePoint/Power Apps automation.
  • Increased regional sales support efficiency by streamlining risk management processes and reducing shrink by 3% annually.

Languages

English
Native or Bilingual

Certification

  • Lean six Sigma - Green Belt - Yellow Belt (Gold Award)
  • St Johns Ambulance First AID & CPR
  • Johnston Equipment - Forklift Operator License
  • Received awards for working at the Special Olympics in (2003)
  • Student of the year - Dunshauglin Community Collage.
  • AFS “Auxiliary Fire Service” reserve fireman.
  • Civil Defense - River/Mountain rescue.

Interests and Activities:

  • Skilled in operating heavy-duty construction and agricultural machinery, including site excavators.
  • Experienced in metalwork, carpentry, and masonry, demonstrating strong technical and hands-on capabilities.
  • Proficient in IT technology and photography, showcasing adaptability and creativity.
  • Enthusiastic about physical fitness activities such as walking, running, and swimming, reflecting commitment to health and endurance.
  • Passionate about automotive technology, travel, and outdoor activities like camping, highlighting versatility and problem-solving in diverse environments.

Timeline

Process Improvement Specialist

Finning CAT
04.2026 - Current

Regional Operations Manager

Gescan / Sonepar
05.2018 - 03.2026

District Operations Trainer

Bed Bath & Beyond / buy buy BABY
06.2010 - 05.2018

Bachelor of Science - Building Surveying (Hon’s)

Dundalk Institute of Technology
Adam Crofton