Erik Zimmermann

Quality Management Consultant

Seefeld, Germany

Experience

Jan 2021 - Present
3 years 7 months

Quality Management Consultant

  • GAP analysis to revise the management system according to DIN ISO 9001
  • Conducting workshops to develop suitable processes
  • Training and coaching staff on process responsibility
  • Introduction of a document management system
  • Sparring partner for management regarding business development
  • Support for various projects to increase efficiency

Successes:

  • Revised the management system and passed the subsequent audit by TÜV (surveillance audit)
  • Optimized procurement processes regarding supplier selection and management, pricing and product quality
  • Adjusted internal inspection procedures for better error detection and reduction of follow-up costs
  • Introduced a change management process
Jan 2020 - Dec 2023
3 years

Director Global Quality

  • Responsible for QM and QA departments with 22 employees
  • Conducted personnel and budget planning
  • Built and further developed the entire Q organization
  • Redesigned the complaint management for efficiency and sustainability
  • Improved and streamlined company processes
  • Planned and monitored projects for quality improvement
  • Defined and optimized suitable process and departmental metrics

Successes:

  • Introduced quality planning for new development projects
  • Completely restructured the CAQ system
  • Established supplier management, introduced new contracts
  • Implemented new testing equipment to increase efficiency
  • Introduced AQL and shifted inspections to suppliers
  • Systemic safeguarding of medical device production
Jan 2020 - Dec 2020
1 year

Project Manager Software Implementation

  • Introduced the company-wide ERP system for a new site
  • Planned the project organization
  • Created requirements specification and approved the functional specification
  • Coordinated with the software provider
  • Managed scheduling and risk
  • Planned software validation and user training
  • Conducted project controlling and documentation

Successes:

  • Delivered the software on time with smooth integration into the company ERP
  • Successfully completed software validation
  • Created user documentation including all custom workflows
Jan 2019 - Dec 2021
3 years

Process Management and Product Approval Consultant

  • Implemented a standardized approach to product development and approval
  • Facilitated workshops for process optimization
  • Supported multiple optimization projects
  • Conducted GAP analysis and updated product files according to current regulations

Successes:

  • Established a project management process including APQP application
  • Optimized incoming goods inspection by introducing AQL and adjusting supplier management
  • Converted inventory and line supply to a Kanban system
  • Introduced the pull principle and reduced inventory levels
  • Digitalized production lines by providing ERP, CAQ, and manufacturing control software
  • Built a regulatory affairs department to ensure approvals
  • Provided compliant product files
Jan 2018 - Present
7 years 7 months
Seefeld, Germany

Managing Partner

aQmenda GmbH & Co. KG

Jan 2018 - Dec 2021
4 years

Quality Management Consultant

  • Restructured the quality management system according to DIN ISO 9001
  • Merged three national subsidiaries under one certificate
  • Supported external audits and conducted internal audits
  • Designed a continuous improvement process
  • Trained and coached employees in quality management

Successes:

  • Multiple successful certifications by SQS
  • Completed site harmonization
  • Introduced and documented a CIP and successfully ran several pilot projects
  • Conducted training on quality methods and coached on application
Jan 2018 - Dec 2019
1 year

Organizational Development

  • Ensured effective plant communication on quality topics
  • Involved the field service organization in relevant quality issues
  • Identified suitable metrics to steer quality activities
  • Built necessary methodological know-how among leaders and staff

Successes:

  • Implemented a multi-level shop-floor meeting including management, department heads, line managers, and quality assurance
  • Built an effective metrics management system
Jan 2016 - Dec 2020
3 years

Task Force Leader for Q Improvements

  • Built and led a task force to sustainably solve acute quality issues in the automotive industry
  • Implemented quality standards for efficient error detection, problem solving, and complaint handling
  • Prepared and supported regular customer audits (VDA 6.3)
  • Adapted existing processes and integrated new standards
  • Built necessary knowledge among leaders and staff through coaching and training
  • Revised the entire testing concept for intermediate and final inspections

Successes:

  • Task force composed of quality assurance, operational excellence, and production
  • Introduced methods like Ishikawa, 5-Why, value stream mapping, SPC, etc.
  • Established operator self-inspection in production
  • Eliminated additional external 100% inspections
  • Successfully closed all customer escalation scenarios
Jan 2015 - Dec 2019
3 years

Trainer for Quality Methods

  • Developed an intensive course on QM and QA topics in industry, including software usage examples and market requirements
  • Conducted the training multiple times for new sales, project management staff, and customer programmers
  • Delivered presentations and training on quality topics as part of the client’s academy
Jan 2015 - Dec 2019
4 years

Quality Management Representative

  • Optimized the QMS according to DIN ISO 13485 and DIN ISO 9001
  • Prepared for certification under MDSAP
  • Optimized complaint and CAPA management
  • Supported global product approvals
  • Built a supplier management system

Successes:

  • Multiple successful certifications by DEKRA
  • Developed a successful concept for implementing MDSAP measures
  • Increased average supplier rating by 10%
  • Completed three successful medical device approvals (Class I and IIa)
Jan 2015 - Dec 2019
4 years

Owner / Consultant

QM-Consultant.com

Jan 2015 - Dec 2016
2 years

Project Manager Quality Management & Production

  • Documented existing company processes and conducted GAP analysis according to DIN ISO 9001 requirements
  • Optimized processes and developed an English QMS
  • Planned production layout for series manufacturing of the first product line

Successes:

  • Implemented and certified a QMS under DIN EN ISO 9001
  • Built a series production environment for cobots
Jan 2013 - Dec 2015
3 years

Commercial Operations Manager / Head of Quality Management

  • Worked for the automotive industry, engine and transmission components
Jan 2009 - Dec 2014
4 years

Head of Quality Management

  • Worked in electrical engineering and photovoltaics
Jan 2009 - Dec 2010
2 years

Deputy Head of Quality Management

  • Worked for commercial vehicles, trailers, and semi-trailers
Jan 2008 - Dec 2009
2 years

Team Leader Quality Planning

  • Worked for commercial vehicles, trailers, and semi-trailers
Jan 2007 - Dec 2009
2 years

Quality Engineer

  • Worked in automation technology, measurement and control engineering
Jan 1999 - Dec 2008
8 years

Quality Manager

  • Worked in medical technology, diagnostic instruments

Summary

See

The real work starts with observations and conversations on site. I critically question deviations and connections to spark constructive discussions for problem solving.

Understand

Identifying errors and evaluating them objectively are essential for project success. I am consistent in defining inputs and evaluating results.

Act

People are the key to positive change for me. My personal goal is to inspire and support them on their journey. Promoting an open error culture and self-responsible work ensures long-term success.

Languages

German
Native
English
Advanced

Certifications & licenses

QM Auditor

Quality Management Representative

Quality Manager

Six Sigma Green-Belt