Mike Hoseus
Toyota Culture Workshop
Date: November 2024
Written by: John Vellema
Mike Hoseus Toyota Culture Workshop: Key Insights & Learnings
Exploring Toyota Culture at the Mike Hoseus Toyota Culture Workshop
The Mike Hoseus Toyota Culture Workshop provided deep insights into Toyota’s leadership principles and organizational culture. It took place just before the Lean Enterprise Africa Lean Conference. Mike Hoseus, co-author of Toyota Culture: The Heart and Soul of the Toyota Way, led this exclusive session. It focused on Lean, leadership, and Training Within Industry (TWI). Participants engaged in hands-on learning activities.
This full-day event was more than just a workshop. It encouraged both learning and collaboration. Furthermore, participants connected with Lean experts and built valuable relationships. Over several days, I, Cathrine, Ben Hoseus, and Mike had in-depth discussions. We explored Lean leadership, TWI, and Toyota’s continuous improvement culture.
Feel the Atmosphere – Watch a recap of the day’s highlights. See the energy, interactions, and key moments from the Mike Hoseus Toyota Culture Workshop.
Watch a special BTP Talk with Mike and John – Filmed right after the workshop, they share key insights and reflections on the TWI J-programs and Lean.
Key Takeaways from the Mike Hoseus Toyota Culture Workshop
Purpose: Defining True North
A strong culture starts with purpose. Mike emphasized the importance of aligning an organization’s strategy with its mission, vision, and values. During the workshop, participants explored how to define their “True North” (Hoshin). They also learned how to apply servant leadership principles to create a values-driven direction.
People: The Foundation of Lean Culture
People shape culture. Mike shared best practices for hiring, developing core competencies, and engaging employees. Additionally, he emphasized the role of leadership in sustaining a Lean management system.
Process: Improving Efficiency through Lean Tools
Participants gained practical knowledge on value stream optimization, cross-training, and Just-In-Time (JIT) processes. By applying these methods, organizations can enhance efficiency and improve responsiveness.
Problem-Solving: A3 Thinking and Toyota Business Practices
One of the key discussions focused on problem-solving techniques. Specifically, Mike covered A3 Thinking, PDCA cycles, and Toyota Business Practices (TBP). These structured tools help leaders make data-driven decisions with greater accuracy.
A Deeper Connection & Future Opportunities
Beyond the workshop, spending time with Mike and Ben Hoseus reinforced the power of collaboration. Looking ahead, I’m eager to build on these insights and further strengthen TWI and Lean practices worldwide.
Exciting opportunities are coming up. You can join a 3-day workshop in the UK with Mike on Lean Culture, followed by a 1-day TWI session with me. Additionally, in 2026, the Lean and TWI Japan Tour with Ben, Mike, and the BTP team will offer an immersive learning experience inside Toyota’s culture.
The Mike Hoseus Toyota Culture Workshop was an unforgettable experience. I look forward to applying these learnings in the industry!
Watch a clip from Mike’s workshop – Hear the story of “Scratching the Car,” a pivotal learning moment from his onboarding process while working at Toyota Japan.
Hightlights
Highlights
Upcoming Events with FocusIn & BTP
Business Through People and FocusIn partner to deliver exclusive events on operational excellence, continuous improvement, and leadership. Gain hands-on learning, site visits to top manufacturing facilities, and expert-led workshops.
Register through BTP and get a $500 discount.
Join us to learn from industry experts and experience best practices firsthand.
19
September
FocusIn: Industry Leadership – UK Edition
Join us at FocusIn: Industry Leadership in the UK for exclusive site visits to leading manufacturing firms. Gain firsthand insights into world-class production systems and engage in discussions on workforce engagement and continuous improvement.
What to expect:
- Site visits to top manufacturing facilities
- Group discussions with industry leaders
- Workshops led by Mike Hoseus, former Toyota executive
Optional full-day TWI workshop on Friday, September 19, led by John Vellema and Ben Hoseus. Additional cost: $799.
1-6
March
FocusIn: Japan Operational Excellence Benchmarking
Join us in Japan to experience operational excellence at its source. This multi-day event includes site visits to best-practice companies, hands-on Kaizen training with Japanese sensei, and insights into Lean principles like visual management and standard work.
What to expect:
- Site visits to top manufacturing facilities
- Group discussions on continuous improvement and workforce engagement
- Kaizen training directly on the shop floor
Evening networking events and cultural experiences will be included to enhance learning and collaboration.
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