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What a Executive Learned from the Factory Floor Before Taking Over HR at Bridgestone

Written by Carla Teles
Published on 23/07/2025 at 12:49
O que um executivo aprendeu com o chão de fábrica antes de assumir o topo do RH da Bridgestone
Qual o segredo para ir do chão de fábrica à liderança de RH? Descubra a jornada do executivo da Bridgestone e as lições que ele aprendeu na operação.
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Discover How the Experience on the Ground Transformed Jeison Lion’s Career and Revealed the Key to a More Human and Innovative People Management at the Tire Giant.

The journey of a professional who starts on the factory floor and reaches an executive leadership position in Human Resources is a source of great learning. At Bridgestone, one of the largest tire manufacturers in the world, this story is represented by Jeison Lion. His journey shows, in practice, how experience at the operational base can transform people management, bringing more empathy, innovation, and focus on employee well-being.

The Transition to HR

The leap from a technical career to HR leadership was not a simple path for Jeison. He reveals that he actively sought the support of mentors to understand if the change was compatible with his professional profile. “Having a mentor was essential. More than providing answers, he helped me ask the right questions”, says the executive. This transition led him to lead complex themes such as change management, organizational development, and labor relations.

Lessons from the Factory Floor Applied to HR

Direct experience on the factory floor was the foundation for his management philosophy. “The factory floor taught me to have empathy and understand that not every solution fits everyone”, explains Jeison. For him, it is essential to design processes with an eye on the people who will use them on a daily basis. In a high-pressure environment for results and technological transformation, he argues that “ensuring psychological safety in factories is as important as any production goal”.

The Future of Work in Industry

Keeping the team engaged is one of today’s biggest challenges. To face it, Bridgestone invests in technology with a human focus. The company uses virtual reality, for example, to train its operators even before they have their first contact with a real machine. This culture of valuing people is also reflected in the longevity of relations. “We have entire families working here. I’ve seen cases of three generations in the same factory”, he shares. To strengthen these ties, the company hosts events like Family Day, opening the factory doors to employees’ relatives.

Education Does Not Limit, It Drives

For those looking to grow professionally, Jeison Lion’s journey leaves a clear message. Technology is a reality, and those who do not know how to use it to enhance their work will be left behind. His final advice is straightforward: “Seek mentors, cultivate self-awareness, and don’t be afraid to move between areas. Your education does not limit you; it drives you”.

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Aline Bernardes
Aline Bernardes
30/07/2025 23:12

Sua trajetória inspira pela coerência entre discurso e prática. É um privilégio ser liderada e seguir aprendendo com você.

Carla Teles

I produce daily content on economics, diverse topics, the automotive sector, technology, innovation, construction, and the oil and gas sector, with a focus on what truly matters to the Brazilian market. Here, you will find updated job opportunities and key industry developments. Have a content suggestion or want to advertise your job opening? Contact me: carlatdl016@gmail.com

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