Carlos Castro
Carlos Castro
Science Bch - Chemistry, MBA, TPM Instructor, Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, Scrum Master
Languages
Carlos Castro has conceptual and hands-on expertise in strategic and operational Supply Chain management, Research and Development, and Manufacturing. His experience includes overseeing 12 plants across Argentina, Brazil, and Colombia.
Over the past 10 years, he has worked as a consultant specializing in continuous improvement and productivity enhancement for numerous companies across Latin America. His clients include industry leaders such as Kimberly-Clark, Unilever, Monsanto, Atanor, Avon, Henkel, Despegar.com, Mondelez, Bayer, Ledesma, Sanofi, Mattel, Beiersdorf, Clorox, Cargill, Coca-Cola FEMSA, Bimbo, and many others.
Carlos brings experience in Supply Chain Leadership and Strategy Design, Procurement and Supplier Negotiations, and Cost Structure Analysis. He excels in Sales & Operations Planning, Integrated Business Planning, and Customer Service & Logistics Development. His expertise includes Research and Development Strategy, Product Sourcing, Outsourcing, and Co-Manufacturer Development. Carlos has a strong background in Quality Systems and Sustainability Strategy, along with Business Process Design and Enterprise Management Systems, including Lean Six Sigma and TPM. He is skilled in Agile Methodologies and has experience in Mergers and Acquisitions.
Manufacturing
20+ Years of Experience
Automotive
Carlos has extensive experience in the automotive sector, focusing on Lean-based improvement programs to drive operational excellence and efficiency. He has successfully implemented and supported Lean methodologies in automotive parts manufacturing, particularly with Baterias Moura, a leading battery manufacturer. His work involved developing and executing continuous improvement initiatives, facilitating Lean Six Sigma belt training, and coaching teams to optimize manufacturing processes.
Carlos played a key role in enhancing production efficiency, reducing waste, and improving quality control within the supply chain. His efforts helped streamline operations, ensuring higher productivity and cost reductions while maintaining stringent industry standards.
By fostering a culture of continuous improvement, he has enabled teams to identify inefficiencies, implement data-driven solutions, and sustain long-term operational gains. His expertise in Lean methodologies and process optimization has made him a valuable asset in the automotive industry.
Chemicals
Carlos has extensive experience implementing Lean and Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) programs in the chemicals industry, driving operational excellence across multiple manufacturing environments. He has successfully installed and supported continuous improvement initiatives in leading companies such as Ledesma (paper and sugar), Atanor and Bunge (agrochemicals), Unilever (soap and glycerin plant), and Rousselot (gelatin manufacturing), among others.
He led Lean Six Sigma belt training initiatives, coached cross-functional teams, and streamlined production processes to improve efficiency and reduce waste. By applying structured methodologies, Carlos achieved reductions in downtime, increased throughput, and reinforced quality control. He also cultivated a culture of continuous improvement, enabling teams to identify inefficiencies, implement lasting process enhancements, and deliver cost savings.
Textile
Carlos led the complete redesign of the Supply Chain for a textile company operating four manufacturing plants in Argentina, optimizing its logistics, transportation network, warehousing, and production processes. This company manages a fully integrated, end-to-end textile operation, processing raw cotton through to finished fabrics, including raw, printed, and dyed materials.
His work involved streamlining material flows, enhancing production scheduling, and improving inventory management, ensuring greater efficiency, cost savings, and responsiveness to market demands. By redesigning the logistics and transport network, Carlos helped reduce lead times, minimize waste, and optimize resource allocation across facilities. Additionally, he introduced best practices in Lean Supply Chain Management, driving improvements in plant synchronization, demand forecasting, and supplier collaboration.
Food & Beverages
Carlos has over seven years of leadership experience in Supply Chain management across Latin America, directing operations at Unilever, Mondelez, and Cadbury Kraft. He possesses expertise in end-to-end supply chain processes, manufacturing networks, and technology integration, ensuring efficiency and scalability across diverse markets.
As a consultant, Carlos has designed and implemented Improvement Programs for major multinational corporations, including Mondelez, Unilever, Coca-FEMSA, Danone, Bimbo, Quilmes, and Puratos, among others. His work spans multi-national operations, focusing on Lean methodologies, process optimization, and supply chain transformation.
In addition to developing and executing strategic initiatives, he has provided integrated support for program development, including Lean Six Sigma belt training, improvement team coaching, and leadership mentoring. His hands-on approach has helped organizations enhance operational efficiency, achieve cost reductions, and foster a culture of continuous improvement across Latin America’s dynamic business landscape.
Other Manufacturing
Carlos has over 15 years of experience in R&D and Supply Chain executive roles at Unilever, where he was trained in Total Quality Management (TQM) and later in Total Productive Maintenance (TPM). A TPM instructor certified by the Japan Institute of Plant Maintenance (JIPM), Carlos led TPM implementation programs across four different plants over a decade, earning two Excellence Awards, one Consistency Award, and one World Class Supply Chain Award for factories in Brazil and Argentina.
His expertise in the Personal Care, Cosmetics, and Perfumery industries has been further enriched through his work as a consultant. He has supported the implementation of TPM- and Lean Six Sigma-based improvement programs for major companies, including Avon, Unilever, Beiersdorf, Andrómaco, Lidherma, La Fármaco, Alicorp, Clorox, and others, driving operational excellence and continuous improvement across the sector.
Service/Transactional
5+ Years of Experience
Airlines & Transportation
Carlos implemented and supported a Lean-based improvement program at Despegar.com, one of Argentina’s first unicorn companies, which has expanded significantly across Latin America over the past 20 years. His work included belt training, team coaching, and continuous support, driving operational efficiency and process optimization. By integrating Lean methodologies, he helped enhance workflow management, resource allocation, and overall business performance, aligning with Despegar.com’s rapid growth and evolving market demands. His expertise in process improvement and team development contributed to strengthening the company’s operational foundation, supporting its expansion and competitiveness in the online travel industry.
Banking
Carlos implemented and supported Lean-based improvement programs at Banco Itaú and Banco de México, focusing on process optimization, operational efficiency, and team development. His work included belt training, coaching improvement teams, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. By applying Lean methodologies, he helped streamline banking operations, enhance service delivery, and improve workflow management. His expertise in process excellence and change management contributed to fostering a culture of continuous improvement within these financial institutions, enabling them to enhance customer experience and strengthen their competitive edge in the financial sector.
Healthcare
Carlos has experience in the pharmaceutical industry designing, implementing, and supporting improvement programs for companies such as Bayer, Sanofi, Andrómaco, and Tuteur. His work includes Lean and TPM methodologies, belt training, coaching improvement teams, and providing integrated support for change management. By optimizing manufacturing processes, quality systems, and operational efficiency, he has helped these companies enhance productivity and reduce waste. His expertise in continuous improvement and process excellence has contributed to fostering a culture of innovation and efficiency, driving measurable improvements in pharmaceutical operations across Latin America.
Retail
Carlos led the complete redesign of the supply chain for Uniber, a NOA-based Argentine company with over 20 retail locations specializing in construction materials. His work focused on optimizing logistics, transportation networks, warehouse operations, and order-to-cash processes, resulting in significant efficiency gains and cost reductions. By implementing best practices in supply chain management and Lean methodologies, he improved inventory management, delivery times, and overall operational effectiveness. The transformation program enabled Uniber to streamline its distribution channels, enhance customer service, and strengthen its market position in the construction materials sector.
Education
Carlos led the installation and support of Lean and Agile-based improvement programs at IAE Business School, focusing on training and coaching improvement teams. His work enabled the institution to enhance operational efficiency, streamline processes, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. His expertise in process improvement and team development contributed to increased adaptability and innovation within the organization, ensuring sustainable growth and long-term impact in the business education sector.
Mergers & Acquisitions – Private Equity
Carlos supported Mondelez in acquiring a confectionery business in Argentina, leading the technical due diligence process. His expertise ensured a thorough assessment of manufacturing capabilities, supply chain integration, and operational risks. Additionally, he played a key role in the technical due diligence of two major global acquisitions: Kraft/Cadbury and Unilever/Bestfoods. With experience in mergers and acquisitions, Carlos has provided critical insights and strategic recommendations, facilitating seamless transitions and maximizing operational efficiencies in large-scale corporate integrations.
Agribusiness
10+ Years of Experience
Animal Farming
Carlos spent over three years leading the Biosecurity Improvement Program at Cargill in Colombia, overseeing training and improvement teams coaching. His work spanned more than 30 integrated farms, five reproduction farms, and two incubation plants, ensuring enhanced disease prevention, operational efficiency, and compliance with industry standards. His expertise in agricultural and livestock management extends beyond consultancy—he is also the owner of a cattle fattening business, giving him firsthand experience in farm operations. This combination of corporate leadership and hands-on agricultural expertise provides a well-rounded perspective on biosecurity and farm management.
Hydroponics
Carlos has over 10 years of experience in the development and manufacturing of HGL using vertical hydroponic systems for various farm animals. His work has contributed to enhancing farm productivity, reducing feed costs, and improving animal health.
Agricultural Farming
Carlos has implemented and supported Continuous Improvement Programs in leading corn and soy seed manufacturers, including Monsanto and Bayer, as well as in agrochemical production with Atanor. His work includes belt training, coaching improvement teams, and driving efficiency initiatives to enhance operational performance, quality, and resource optimization. With a deep understanding of agriculture and agribusiness, Carlos applies Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to streamline processes and maximize productivity. In addition to his consulting expertise, he is also the owner of an agricultural farming business, giving him firsthand experience in modern farming practices and supply chain dynamics.
Feed Formulations
Carlos spent over three years leading the Biosecurity and Improvement Program for Cargill in Colombia, focusing on their two chicken concentrated feed plants. His work involved training, coaching improvement teams, and implementing Lean and Six Sigma methodologies to enhance biosecurity protocols, operational efficiency, and process optimization. His expertise in agri-food supply chains and biosecurity strategies has been instrumental in strengthening Cargill’s operations, ensuring higher standards in feed manufacturing and overall biosecurity compliance.
Energy and Natural Resources
1 Year of Experience
Metal & Mining
Carlos has successfully installed and supported Continuous Improvement programs in the lithium and gold mining sectors, focusing on training, coaching improvement teams, and providing program support. His expertise in Lean, Six Sigma, and TPM methodologies was integral in optimizing operations and improving resource management. By driving culture change and efficiency gains across mining operations, he helped companies achieve significant improvements in productivity and waste reduction. His approach to team development and coaching facilitated the integration of continuous improvement principles, delivering measurable operational excellence in high-stakes, resource-intensive industries.
Infrastructure, Construction & Building Products
3+ Years of Experience
Carlos has successfully installed and supported Continuous Improvement programs across 4 plants of Etex, including their Durlock and Eternit brands, focusing on belt training, coaching improvement teams, and providing program support. His leadership in Lean, Six Sigma, and TPM methodologies contributed to optimizing manufacturing processes, improving product quality, and reducing waste. In addition, Carlos has 3 years of experience in R&D at Saint Gobain, specializing in cementitious products, painting, and additives for construction materials. His expertise in product innovation and process enhancements has helped drive continuous improvement in the construction industry, ensuring operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness across the sector.
Technology
1 Year of Experience
Software Development
Carlos successfully installed and supported a Continuous Improvement program based on Agile methodology at Wezen, a software development company. His leadership focused on Agile practices such as Scrum and Kanban, helping to improve development cycles, team collaboration, and project delivery. By implementing Agile principles, Carlos facilitated a shift toward incremental progress, enabling teams to adapt quickly to changing requirements and achieve higher efficiency.