Karen Gaudet
Director HR and Organizational Development, Lean Enterprise Institute
Karen has over 30 years’ experience leading business, training, and developing the capability of team members and executives in rapid-growth environments.
Previously, as Regional Director of Operations at Starbucks Coffee Company, she built a consistent track record of growing the operating performance across a large area of retail stores along with the continuous improvement capabilities of people.
During her time at Starbucks, Karen learned and then led others through the spread of the Lean Operating System developed through the business transformation.
Karen was able to help inform what would become a national approach to operations. and provided feedback necessary for a broad, global implementation.
She also led a team of coaches responsible for teaching problem solving and mentoring skills to regional executives, directors, and district managers responsible for implementing the lean operating system.
Early in her time with Starbucks Karen led the growth of Starbucks across the New England market.
Previously, she held management and executive posts in operations, marketing, and training at large restaurant chains, a retail consulting company, and a technology startup preparing for an initial public offering.
