Scott Keys is a seasoned manufacturing executive with over 41 years of experience in automotive manufacturing, operations leadership, and strategic process improvement. Throughout his distinguished career, he has played a pivotal role in optimizing manufacturing processes, managing global operations, and leading high-performance teams. His deep expertise in lean manufacturing, six sigma methodologies, contract negotiations, and P&L management has positioned him as a trusted leader in the automotive sector.
A graduate of Kettering University (formerly General Motors Institute), Scott holds a bachelor’s degree in industrial administration with a focus on production management. His education, coupled with hands-on experience, has enabled him to streamline production operations, drive cost efficiencies, and implement continuous improvement strategies across various organizations.
Scott spent a significant portion of his career at Cooper Standard, a leading global supplier of sealing and fluid handling systems for the automotive industry. Over his 26 year tenure, he held multiple senior leadership positions, including senior director of U.S./Canada manufacturing, VP & general manager of Nishikawa Cooper LLC, senior director of global footprint optimization, and VP of manufacturing for the U.S. and Canada. In these roles, he spearheaded manufacturing strategies, optimized operational footprints, and oversaw large-scale production initiatives across multiple locations.
While at Cooper Standard, Scott served as VP/general manager of Nisco LLC, (joint venture between Cooper Standard and Nishikawa Rubber) where he had full operational responsibility for the tier 1 automotive supplier specializing in sealing systems. Under his leadership, the company expanded its operational efficiency, strengthened supplier relations, and enhanced production capabilities. His expertise in supply chain management, quality assurance (TS16949, ISO14001), and kaizen methodologies has made him an asset in the continuous improvement of automotive manufacturing facilities.
Beyond his corporate leadership, Scott has been actively involved in union negotiations and workforce management, ensuring productive and balanced labor relations in manufacturing environments. His ability to navigate complex negotiations, resolve personnel challenges, and foster a collaborative workplace culture has contributed to the success and sustainability of the organizations he has led.
His international experience includes working with teams in Japan, Canada, Mexico, Europe, and India, giving him a global perspective on manufacturing excellence and operational optimization. This exposure has allowed him to integrate best practices from different regions and drive innovation within the companies he has served.
Scott’s leadership extends beyond the corporate world. He has contributed to economic and community development initiatives by serving as a director for the Kingsport Chamber of Commerce, United Way of Otsego County, Clarinda Economic Development, and the Clarinda Foundation. His commitment to community engagement reflects his dedication to building strong relationships, fostering economic growth, and supporting nonprofit organizations.
Now retired from full-time executive roles, Scott is actively seeking board and advisory positions where he can leverage his extensive industry expertise. His passion for manufacturing excellence, team collaboration, and strategic decision-making makes him a highly valuable addition to any board looking to drive operational efficiency and long-term growth.
Known as a “people-oriented manufacturing expert,” Scott believes in the power of strong leadership, continuous learning, and collaborative teamwork. His wealth of experience, combined with his ability to navigate complex operational challenges, positions him as a key contributor to organizations aiming for excellence in manufacturing and industrial operations.
Character: Scott Keys is a people-oriented manufacturing expert known for his strong leadership, integrity, and commitment to team collaboration.
Knowledge: With over 41 years in automotive manufacturing, he has extensive expertise in lean manufacturing, six sigma, contract negotiations, and operational excellence.
Strategic: He has successfully led large-scale manufacturing operations, optimized global footprints, and driven continuous improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and profitability.
Communication: Scott excels in workforce management, union negotiations, and cross-functional leadership, effectively engaging teams and stakeholders
