Kyle Stiens: Leading with Purpose, Collaboration, and Community
Kyle Stiens, Director of Operations for Americas Automotive at NSK and Plant Manager for the Franklin Automotive Bearing Plant, is no stranger to responsibility. A graduate of Leadership Johnson County’s (LJC) Class of 2013, Kyle now oversees operations across three manufacturing facilities—Franklin and Liberty, Indiana, and Silao, Mexico—while helping shape long-term manufacturing strategy in a highly competitive global industry.
In his role, Kyle balances big-picture planning with day-to-day execution. His time is spent developing manufacturing strategies for new business, setting improvement plans, checking in on daily plant operations, and reporting business results. It’s a role that requires both technical expertise and strong leadership—skills Kyle began intentionally sharpening early in his career.
When Kyle joined LJC in 2013, he was still relatively new to plant management. With about ten years of experience, he had recently taken on a significant increase in responsibility. While he benefited from strong mentors and experienced team members, he sought leadership training to accelerate his growth and help him confidently step into his role.
Kyle’s definition of leadership has evolved over time. Early on, leadership meant building trust, strengthening communication, and creating a cohesive team. Today, with teams spanning multiple departments and facilities, his focus has shifted to culture and long-term sustainability—creating pathways that ensure stability and opportunity for both people and plants.
After more than 23 years with NSK, Kyle remains deeply motivated by the company’s mission and its people. He is committed to making NSK a great place to work while delivering products society depends on. In an industry defined by competition, earning new business and excellence awards fuels his drive to keep improving.
Kyle describes his LJC experience simply: “LJC has the best leadership program for your money.” While he has participated in other programs, he credits LJC’s strong community connection and exceptional value as what truly sets it apart.
Beyond NSK, Kyle puts leadership into action through service. He has served on the Ivy Tech Franklin Campus Advisory Board, supported United Way as a loaned executive, and currently serves as a Board Director for Aspire Johnson County, as well as president of his homeowner’s association.
LJC shaped how Kyle shows up in his community by highlighting the need for engaged leaders and giving him the confidence to step forward. One lesson he uses daily is collaboration, recognizing that leadership is never a solo effort.
Kyle sums up his leadership philosophy best: “You can’t lead much on your own. Leverage the experience and talent around you—and stay out of the way.”
To learn more about NSK visit NSK Global—Bearings, Automotive Components, and Precision Machinery and Parts | NSK Global
To learn more about Leadership Johnson County visit Leadership Johnson County