Kaizen Institute Executive and Leadership Team

November, 2026

Leadership Overview

Kaizen Institute has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, and revenue growth.

Dedicated to advancing lean management and continuous improvement, Kaizen Institute empowers global organizations through specialized consulting and training programs that drive operational excellence and sustainable business transformation across diverse international markets.

Leadership Roles at Kaizen Institute

  • Chief Executive Officer & Director - Elyes Ayari
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Larry Cote
  • Chief Operating Officer - Kanlayanee Din
  • Chief Revenue Officer, Kaizen Institute (Mexico) - Jesus Amarillas
  • Elyes Ayari - Chief Executive Officer & Director

    Elyes Ayari, the Chief Executive Officer & Director at Kaizen Institute, directs the overarching strategic vision for global lean management consulting. Ayari architects long-term growth initiatives while overseeing the alignment of international training programs with the core mission of continuous improvement. By collaborating with the Board, the Chief Executive Officer & Director ensures that organizational standards remain consistent across all global offices. This leadership role involves identifying emerging market opportunities for KAIZEN methodologies and scaling service delivery models to meet complex client needs. Elyes Ayari maintains rigorous oversight of corporate governance, ensuring that every consulting engagement reflects the high standards of the firm. Through the implementation of lean principles at the executive level, Ayari drives efficiency and fosters a culture of excellence that permeates the entire organization, ultimately securing the firm's position as a leader in the global consulting industry.

    Larry Cote - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Larry Cote, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Kaizen Institute, manages the daily execution of corporate strategy and operational performance. Cote focuses on the integration of lean management tools into client business models, ensuring that training services deliver measurable improvements in productivity and quality. As the President & Chief Executive Officer, Cote coordinates with regional leadership to standardize service delivery across the global network. This role requires constant evaluation of market trends to refine the firm's consulting approach and maintain a competitive edge in the business services sector. Larry Cote drives the development of new training curricula, ensuring that the methodology remains relevant to modern industrial challenges. By fostering strong relationships with key stakeholders, Cote ensures that the firm achieves its financial objectives while upholding the fundamental principles of continuous improvement that define the organization's legacy.

    Kanlayanee Din - Chief Operating Officer

    Kanlayanee Din, the Chief Operating Officer at Kaizen Institute, oversees the internal infrastructure and logistical frameworks that support global consulting operations. Din directs the optimization of service delivery processes, ensuring that lean management training reaches clients with maximum efficiency. As the Chief Operating Officer, Din manages the allocation of resources across international offices, balancing regional demands with the firm's overarching operational goals. This leadership position involves streamlining administrative workflows and implementing digital tools to enhance the quality of client interactions. Kanlayanee Din monitors performance metrics to identify areas for internal improvement, applying the same KAIZEN principles to the firm's own operations that the company teaches to its clients. By maintaining a focus on operational scalability, Din ensures that the organization remains agile and responsive to the evolving needs of the global market, directly supporting the firm's commitment to continuous improvement.

    Jesus Amarillas - Chief Revenue Officer, Kaizen Institute (Mexico)

    Jesus Amarillas, the Chief Revenue Officer, Kaizen Institute (Mexico) at Kaizen Institute, directs all sales and business development initiatives within the North American market. Amarillas architects revenue growth strategies by identifying key industrial sectors requiring lean management expertise and continuous improvement training. As the Chief Revenue Officer, Kaizen Institute (Mexico), Amarillas manages client acquisition pipelines and fosters long-term partnerships with major organizations seeking operational transformation. This role involves tailoring consulting solutions to meet the specific regulatory and economic nuances of the regional market. Jesus Amarillas coordinates with the broader executive team to ensure that revenue targets align with the firm's global capacity and strategic objectives. By driving aggressive market expansion and maintaining high client retention rates, Amarillas secures the financial stability of the regional branch, ultimately contributing to the overall success and market influence of the firm across the continent.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Kaizen Institute Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Kaizen Institute?
    Kaizen Institute is led by Elyes Ayari (Chief Executive Officer & Director), along with executives such as Larry Cote (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Kanlayanee Din (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Kaizen Institute’s executive team?
    The executive team of Kaizen Institute includes leaders such as Elyes Ayari (Chief Executive Officer & Director), Larry Cote (President & Chief Executive Officer), Kanlayanee Din (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Kaizen Institute have?
    Kaizen Institute has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Kaizen Institute’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Kaizen Institute includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer & Director, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Revenue Officer, Kaizen Institute (Mexico).