Accelerators and Kaizen Cru Workshop: Building a Best-in-Class Leadership Culture
On August 19, leadership teams from YMCA and YMFCA came together in Toronto for the Accelerators and Kaizen Cru Workshop—a full day focused on strengthening the leadership practices and behaviors that will help us overcome challenges and raise the bar to deliver a best-in-class experience for our partners.
Established last year, the Accelerators and Kaizen Cru teams reflect our commitment to building a stronger, more connected leadership culture. The Accelerators, comprised of the Executive Team and Senior Management, focus on strategic priorities, organizational growth, and removing barriers to success. The Kaizen Cru, made up of Middle Management leaders, drives continuous improvement, operational excellence, and stronger connections between strategy and execution.
Facilitated by renowned leadership expert Mike Lipkin, the workshop brought leaders together through engaging discussions and practical exercises focused on trust, decision-making, ownership, clarity, transparency, and cross-functional alignment.
Leaders shared experiences, challenged perspectives, and identified opportunities to strengthen collaboration across the organization.
One of the strongest themes was the power of simplification. Reducing complexity in our processes and communication enables faster decisions, greater clarity, and stronger alignment. Equally important was the call for every leader to take ownership—demonstrating accountability, initiative, and a commitment to empowering our teams.
The energy, openness, and engagement throughout the day reflected a shared commitment to continuous improvement. The workshop reinforced that becoming best in class is not about one initiative or one team—it is about how we lead and work together every day.
The momentum continues with a follow-up regroup planned for December, where we will reflect on progress, share successes, and build on the commitments made in Toronto.
The workshop was more than a day of learning—it was a catalyst for action. By simplifying, empowering, taking ownership, and building trust, we can continue raising the bar and creating a stronger, more agile, and more connected organization.
Together, we have the opportunity to turn great conversations into meaningful action and make best-in-class leadership part of who we are.
Bob Starr, Yamaha Motor Finance Corporation (YMFC-Global)