Chris Yurista
About Chris Yurista
Chris Yurista serves as the Director of Operations at Harley-Davidson Motor Company, a position he has held since 2018. With extensive experience in various roles at Harley-Davidson and a strong educational background in management and business, he specializes in transformation and culture change within manufacturing environments.
Current Role as Director of Operations
Chris Yurista currently serves as the Director of Operations at Harley-Davidson Motor Company, a position he has held since 2018. Based in the York, Pennsylvania area, he oversees various operational aspects of the company. His extensive background within Harley-Davidson includes multiple roles that have equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of manufacturing processes and operational management.
Career Progression at Harley-Davidson
Chris Yurista has had a long tenure at Harley-Davidson Motor Company, beginning in 1996 as a Maintenance Supervisor. Over the years, he has held several key positions, including Project Engineer, Quality Manager, and Interim General Manager. His roles have spanned various functions, showcasing his versatility and expertise in operational support resources, assembly management, and quality systems.
Education and Professional Development
Chris Yurista has pursued extensive education to enhance his professional skills. He studied at Duke University - The Fuqua School of Business, earning a degree in Business in 2010. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Management and a Master of Management from the University of Phoenix. Additionally, he has obtained certificates in Six Sigma Green Belt and Lean Six Sigma from Villanova University, further solidifying his expertise in quality improvement methodologies.
Military Background and Skills
Before his career at Harley-Davidson, Chris Yurista served in the United States Army as an M-60 A3 Tanker from 1986 to 1994. This military experience has contributed to his leadership skills and discipline. His diverse skill set includes recruiting, employee training, and managing performance plans, which are essential for fostering a productive work environment.
Experience in Manufacturing and Quality Control
Chris Yurista possesses extensive experience in manufacturing environments, particularly in final vehicle assembly, repair, and packing. He has hands-on experience in polishing metal for chrome plating and has implemented continuous improvement systems to enhance operational efficiency. His background in maintenance and reliability systems has been instrumental in driving operational excellence and ensuring high standards in product delivery.