The Australian Lean Summit 2025 brings together an inspiring lineup of invited speakers. From industry trailblazers to frontline innovators, they will share insights, stories, and strategies that challenge the status quo and open new pathways for continuous improvement.
Across keynotes, case studies, and interactive panels, you’ll hear directly from those shaping lean practices in manufacturing, healthcare, education, public service, and beyond. Each speaker brings real-world experience, practical wisdom, and a deep commitment to putting people at the heart of every process.
Whether you’re looking to enhance your lean knowledge, transform your workplace, or spark change in your community, these voices will inspire and equip you to take the next step.
🔎 Scroll down to explore the profiles of this year’s speakers—and discover who you’ll be learning from at the Summit.
Sue O’Neill – CEO Jones Radiology
Sue O’Neill is a renowned health executive and former clinician who has transformed hospitals across Australia through Lean thinking and practice. With over 20 years of executive leadership, Susan brings deep expertise in strategy, systems engineering, and cultural transformation. Her approach empowers staff, embeds continuous improvement, and builds lasting capability. A Professor at Flinders University and past board member of Lean Enterprise Australia, Susan’s insights into data-driven decision-making and leadership development are not to be missed. This is a unique opportunity to learn from one of Australia’s most respected voices in healthcare improvement.
DJ Kim – Author, When Nike Met Toyota
DJ Kim is an experienced Lean coach with over 20 years of expertise across industries including manufacturing, logistics, and energy. Having partnered with top-tier organisations like Nike, Shell, IKEA, and Qatar Energy, DJ brings practical insights into Lean manufacturing, TPM, A3 problem-solving, and leadership development. Currently leading Lean deployment for ASSAB Korea, DJ is passionate about building sustainable Lean cultures, empowering teams, and driving measurable improvements. Don’t miss the chance to learn from his global experiences, deep knowledge, and the real-world stories behind his recent book When Nike met Toyota.
John Shook – Senior Advisor, Lean Enterprise Institute
John Shook is a globally respected thought leader in Lean thinking and organisational transformation. As the first American manager at Toyota in Japan, he played a pivotal role in transferring the Toyota Production System (TPS) to the West, including the landmark NUMMI joint venture. He is the co-author of Learning to See, which introduced value stream mapping to a global audience, and Managing to Learn, which explores the A3 management process. His work bridges deep cultural insight with practical application, making Lean accessible and transformative across industries. This is a rare opportunity to learn from a pioneer whose leadership continues to shape how organisations think, learn, and improve.
Michael White – CEO Vexilllum Consulting
Michael White brings 38 years of global experience in operational excellence and transformation across the automotive and resource sectors. Having led major Lean programs for industry leaders like Toyota, BHP, Rio Tinto, and Valé, Michael is a seasoned expert in designing and deploying operating systems at scale. As the architect of the BHP Operating System, he drove transformation across three regions. His work has delivered substantial outcomes in logistics, rail automation, plant stability, and cultural change. Michael will offer valuable insights into system-wide improvement, leadership alignment, and the practical challenges of Lean implementation in complex environments.
Martin Nelson – General Manager TPS Operations, Toyota Australia
With over four decades of experience, Martin Nelson brings deep expertise spanning Quality, Production, and Customer Service. Martin will explore Toyota Australia’s journey post-manufacturing, including the transformation of the Altona site into the Toyota Centre of Excellence and how the Toyota Production System Support Centre (TSSC) continues Toyota’s legacy through over 200 hands-on projects. Martin will explore shared challenges in implementing Lean practices, insightful learnings from real-world projects, and inspiring stories of kaizen leadership development. An invaluable experience for Lean practitioners aiming to drive real change and embed continuous improvement.