The Lean Leader

You have been promoted. Congratulations. Now you are drowning in meetings, spreadsheets, and people who need things from you. The Lean Leader is for new managers who never received any management training — which is most of you. Former engineering director turned executive coach Maria Gonzalez struggled for years as a first-time manager. She made every mistake: micromanaging, avoiding difficult conversations, working 80-hour weeks to compensate for her insecurity. Then she discovered lean management principles. Everything changed. This book adapts lean methodology — waste reduction, continuous improvement, respect for people — for the modern white-collar workplace. Gonzalez provides practical tools: how to run a 15-minute standup that actually works, how to delegate without feeling guilty, and how to fire someone with compassion. You were promoted because you were good at your job. Now learn to be good at leading one.