Jeff Sinclair, a senior leader at McKinsey and adjunct faculty at the University of Michigan, explores the evolution of McKinsey's operations practice. He reveals how the 1980s focus on automotive industries prompted a shift from strategy to operational excellence. Jeff discusses the firm’s challenge in integrating specialized roles, the cultural transformation that ensued, and the adoption of lean manufacturing principles across various sectors. He also touches on the intriguing world of reverse engineering in consulting that challenges traditional processes.