MORE Is Better: Leading Operations with Meaning, Optimism, and Relationships for Excellence

by Kathy Miller

Overview

In a world where efficiency often overshadows the essential human elements that drive success, this book offers a revolutionary perspective. With her extensive background in industrial engineering, applied positive psychology, and a proven track record in leading operations and driving transformative business initiatives, Miller presents a compelling new approach that marries the rigor of manufacturing with the principles of human flourishing.

This book marks a bold step toward building workplace cultures that are not only productive but also nurturing and inclusive. Drawing from decades of hands-on experience in global manufacturing leadership, Miller lays out a detailed blueprint for transforming the manufacturing landscape.

At its core, "Efficacious Manufacturing" advocates for the integration of positive workplace relationships, meaningful work, and a spirit of optimism into the fabric of manufacturing practices. She argues convincingly that the real engine of a factory is its people, and that recognizing and harnessing this human potential through positive leadership can lead to continuous improvement and innovation. This book is not merely a collection of business strategies; it is a manifesto for rethinking industrial leadership in the modern age.

Leveraging her deep experience from the factory floor to the executive suite, Miller makes the case that true operational excellence and competitive advantage come from valuing every team member. By blending research, real-world examples, and practical advice, she provides a robust rationale for adopting a holistic approach to manufacturing that is efficient, effective, and uniquely powerful.

This book is essential reading for anyone in leadership within the manufacturing sector, from executives to operational managers. At a time when the manufacturing sector is navigating global competition and technological upheaval, this book serves as a hopeful roadmap. It shows how embracing the science of positive psychology can help organizations not just survive but thrive, leaving a legacy of excellence.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781032944784
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	10/20/2025
Pages:	304
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x (d)

About the Author

Kathryn Miller is a distinguished senior business executive whose extensive leadership in driving operational excellence across aerospace, automotive, and diversified industrial industries is well recognized. She has directed operations exceeding $3B in scope, holding P&L responsibility and corporate stewardship over diverse areas such as lean enterprise, quality assurance, strategy deployment, and industrial design.Kathryn's leadership ethos is deeply rooted in cultivating organizational cultures defined by inclusivity, trust, accountability, and relentless improvement.

Her role as the Global Vice President of Vertiv Operating System saw her spearhead the development and implementation of its operating system, enhancing organizational efficiencies worldwide. Previously, as Global Director of Manufacturing, Assembly, and Test at Rolls-Royce Defense, Kathryn delivered aerospace engines and naval components to global military markets, overseeing a transformative $400m upgrade of U.S. facilities that integrated cutting-edge manufacturing technologies. Her tenure at Parker Hannifin as General Manager of the Engineered Seals Division and Vice President – Lean Enterprise & Quality witnessed substantial business growth and operational improvements, reinforcing her reputation as a leader capable of ushering in substantial transformations.

A significant highlight in her career was when her leadership and operational strategies were recognized by receiving the prestigious Shingo Prize for operational excellence, affirming her effectiveness in implementing lean transformations. This accolade is a testament to her skill in enhancing manufacturing processes and leadership practices that yield high-performance results. Kathryn's contributions to advancing women in the manufacturing sector were honored in 2021 when she was inducted into the Women in Manufacturing Hall of Fame. This recognition underscores her commitment to promoting inclusivity and supporting the advancement of women in traditionally male-dominated industries.

Kathryn is also a prolific speaker and author, contributing to prominent industry publications and sharing her insights at leading conferences including Industry Week, Women in Manufacturing, and the International Positive Psychology Association. Her co-authored book, Steel Toes and Stilettos: A True Story of Women Manufacturing Leaders and Lean Transformation Success (Routledge, 2022) further cements her authority in merging operational prowess with positive organizational strategies.

Kathryn Miller's impressive contributions to the field of positive psychology and leadership continue to gain widespread recognition. Her paper, "How Positive Psychology Helps Leaders Create Inclusive, Better-Performing Organizations," published in Leader to Leader, has been acknowledged as one of the most downloaded articles during its first 12 months of publication by Wiley. This accolade highlights her impactful work in promoting inclusive and high-performing organizational cultures through the application of positive psychology, further establishing her as a leading voice in both the academic and professional communities. This significant milestone amplifies her influence in shaping contemporary leadership practices.

Holding a Bachelor of Science in Industrial & Systems Engineering from Kettering University, an MBA from Ball State University, and a Masters in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, she continues to influence the manufacturing sector through her roles on the boards of Amsted Industries and Conexus, and strategic advisory relationships with firms like Elanco, Panasonic, Subaru, and Thermo Fisher Scientific. This blend of practical leadership, scholarly insight, and commitment to positive industrial practices makes Kathryn Miller's upcoming publications and insights highly relevant for those aiming to reshape the future of manufacturing.

Table of Contents

Part I: Foundations of Human Progress – The Story of Work and Well-Being Chapter 1: The Story of Work Chapter 2: The Story of Well-Being at Work Part II: Meaningful Work Chapter 3: Meaningful Work: Meaningful Life Chapter 4: Personal Drivers of Purpose and Impact Chapter 5: The Why and the How of an Organizational Imperative Chapter 6: Lean and Mean-ingful Chapter 7: Preserving Purpose in the Digital Shift Part III: Optimism Chapter 8: Turning Challenges into Opportunities Chapter 9: A Catalyst for Operational Excellence Chapter 10:  Fueling Grit, Goals, and Growth Part IV:  Positive Workplace Relationships Chapter 11:  High-Quality Connections:  How Small Moments Drive Big Results Chapter 12:  Compassion:  Balancing Accountability with Authentic Care Chapter 13:  Psychological Safety:  Breaking the Cycle of Fear and Dysfunction Chapter 14:  Workplace Dynamics:  The Influence of Leaders and Peers Part V: Transformational Leadership Chapter 15: What’s in a Norm? Chapter 16: Norms Fostering Manufacturing Excellence Chapter 17: The Who and How of Successful Norm-Shifting Chapter 18: Now and Forever MORE Appendices Appendix A: Positive Interventions for Enhancing Meaningful Work Appendix B: Positive Interventions Cultivating Optimism Appendix C: Positive Interventions for Developing and Fostering Positive Workplace Relationships References