Ralph Viehmann - Interim Manager (hands-on mentality) and Consultant for Logistics Processes in Production Supply

Q: Where is Ralph based?

Ralph is based in Neitersen, Germany and can operate in on-site , hybrid , and remote work models.

Q: What languages does Ralph speak?

Ralph speaks the following languages: German (Native), English (Intermediate) .

Q: How many years of experience does Ralph have?

Ralph has at least 45 years of experience. During this time, Ralph has worked in at least 31 different roles and for 27 different companies . The average length of individual experience is 1 year and 5 months . Note that Ralph may not have shared all experience and actually has more experience.

Q: What is Ralph's latest experience?

Ralph's most recent position is Interim Manager (hands-on mentality) and Consultant for Logistics Processes in Production Supply at BMW Plant Leipzig .

Q: What companies has Ralph worked for in recent years?

In recent years, Ralph has worked for BMW Plant Leipzig , Eltirc , Hübner GmbH , SwissloLog , and Optima Pharma GmbH .

Q: Which industries is Ralph most experienced in?

Ralph is most experienced in industries like Manufacturing , Pharmaceutical , and Healthcare . Ralph also has some experience in Automotive , Transportation and Logistics , and Chemical .

Q: Which business areas is Ralph most experienced in?

Ralph is most experienced in business areas like Logistics , Project Management , and Supply Chain Management . Ralph also has some experience in Operations , Procurement and Purchasing , and Sustainability Management .

Q: Which industries has Ralph worked in recently?

Ralph has recently worked in industries like Manufacturing , Pharmaceutical , and Automotive .

Q: Which business areas has Ralph worked in recently?

Ralph has recently worked in business areas like Logistics , Operations , and Project Management .

Recommended expert

Neitersen, Germany

Experience

Jan 2025 - Dec 2025

1 year

Leipzig, Germany

Interim Manager (hands-on mentality) and Consultant for Logistics Processes in Production Supply

BMW Plant Leipzig

problem analyses in logistics processes
concept development for route trains (time recording, optimization of trips)
supportive implementation of existing concepts
reporting of analyses to the client Rudolph Logistics and BMW

Jan 2025 - Dec 2025

1 year

Bayreuth, Germany

Logistics Consulting (hands-on mentality) to increase productivity through concrete changes and measurable improvements

Eltirc

ideas coordinated and implemented with employees
hands-on optimization of storage and packing areas
adjustment of storage technology and layout according to lean management
restructuring of the goods receipt area
development of a warehouse and logistics concept for brownfield and greenfield sites, returns, packaging and shipping

Jan 2024 - Dec 2024

1 year

Interim Manager (hands-on mentality) and Logistics Consultant for Plant Relocation

Hübner GmbH

project manager for the planned move from the main plant to the adjacent subsidiary plant
coordination and scheduling with production, logistics, and component suppliers
obtaining quotes from selected relocation service providers including timeline planning
obtaining quotes for necessary construction work (raising the base of the mobile shelving)
obtaining quotes for the technical relocation of the existing shuttle rack, including clarification of potential risks on the 15-year-old system and timeline planning

Jan 2024 - Dec 2024

1 year

Austria

Interim Manager (hands-on mentality) and Consultant for QuickMove Production Coordination and Logistics Process Optimization

SwissloLog

as-is analysis of project and production status (scheduling, delivery dates, production progress) for the QuickMove product area at the Eberstalzell plant, considering current production and supply chain processes
planning and prioritizing production steps in close coordination with the LGCPC project managers in Dortmund and production managers at the Eberstalzell site
development of a concept with measures to resolve the production backlog, including recommendations for prioritizing order processing
close contact with the external EWM consultant regarding missing EWM settings in the automated warehouse

Jan 2023 - Dec 2024

2 years

Interim Manager (hands-on mentality) and Project Manager for machine integration and engineering

Optima Pharma GmbH

schedule monitoring (dates, schedule tracking, project progress control)
order-related scheduling coordination of technical departments (software, process engineering, design)
gathering all actual schedule statuses from the departments
joint solution finding to get back on track in time-critical projects
serving as schedule challenger within the departments
participation in project optimization rounds and shopfloor meetings
moderating schedule optimization meetings within engineering
presentation and visualization of the current project situation using digital media such as Visio, Excel, Microsoft Project
working in a network with other schedule coordinators along the value chain
direct reporting line to the CTO

Jan 2022 - Dec 2022

1 year

Interim Manager Head of Supply Chain Management and Logistics (Automotive Supplier)

Winkelmann GmbH

Responsibility for the logistics chain (suppliers, goods receipt, production planning and scheduling, customer service, customs, warehouse and shipping)
Reducing working capital and optimizing inventory, transport, and lead times
Defining, implementing and optimizing current and future logistics processes along the logistics chain in accordance with lean management guidelines
Negotiating and finalizing agreements between the different process stakeholders in coordination with strategic purchasing and supplier management
Specifying, selecting and introducing logistics equipment
Responsible for logistics budget, planning and forecasting process
Rolling out best practices and ensuring quality standards
Coordinating to ensure customer deliveries in bottleneck situations (bottleneck management)
Participating in and supporting international logistics projects to standardize and harmonize global logistics processes as well as KPIs and master data

Jan 2022 - Dec 2022

1 year

Interim Manager Head of Fulfillment and Supply Chain Management & Logistics (Medical Technology)

Xenios AG (Fresenius Group)

Leading, monitoring and securing the order fulfillment process with the goal of delivering customer orders on time
Identifying and implementing optimization potential across the entire process chain
Ensuring optimal material supply in line with production schedules across all sites
Providing technical leadership to staff in the area of responsibility (supply chain planning, production planning, material procurement, internal logistics at and between sites, and shipping)
Ensuring appropriate inventory levels to maximize customer satisfaction while minimizing costs
Acting as SCM subproject manager for the EWM implementation, serving as a link between the external implementation team and internal IT interface

Jan 2021 - Dec 2022

2 years

Weilheim in Oberbayern, Germany

Interim Manager (hands-on mentality) Regional Distribution Center RDC (Mechanical Engineering Supplier)

Zarges GmbH

Coordinating between the Weilheim production site and Kecskemét in Hungary
Continuously improving distribution processes
Responsible for implementing process optimizations
Setting up distribution requirement planning in SAP with integration into the Weilheim and Hungary organizations
Managing order control for orders awaiting dispatch
Closely monitoring the 3PL provider
Monitoring the SAP system to continuously improve warehouse processes
Responsible for performance and KPI reporting
Involved in the project "New Concept ED Distribution Footprint Europe"
Acting as customer subproject manager for the SAP IT process implementation, serving as a link between the external implementation team and internal IT interface

Jan 2021 - Dec 2021

1 year

Interim Head of Supply Chain Management and Logistics (hands-on mentality) (Automotive Supplier)

Remis GmbH

Responsible for the entire supply chain
Leading and executing supply chain projects
Reducing inventory levels
Developing storage concepts (internal/external)
Site selection and planning of a distribution center near the production site
Selecting carriers for internal plant traffic
Eliminating potential backlogs
Training staff
Preparing process documents

Jan 2020 - Dec 2021

2 years

Austria

Process Consulting and Optimization | Head of Warehouse (hands-on mentality) (Pharma/Medical Technology)

Croma Pharma

Optimizing logistics processes
Updating or creating new documentation
Reducing existing backlogs
Organizing internal transports between sites
Applying 5S and Kaizen approaches in line with lean management
Value stream design
Weakness analysis
Creating a staff quality matrix
Training staff in the process
Validating capacity and utilization levels
Validating all implemented changes

Jan 2020 - Dec 2020

1 year

Germany

Process Consulting and Optimization | Packaging Engineer (Pharma)

Mylan Deutschland

Create packaging instructions (VAWs) after approval of all specific packaging materials and taking into account all relevant data (e.g. expiry dates, info text printing format, palletizing scheme)
Issue the packaging instructions (VAWs) and monitor their circulation
Record the release date in production orders (PRAUF) for further master planning processing (process order creation)
Deactivate VAWs that are no longer needed
Prepare various reports

Jan 2019 - Dec 2020

2 years

Bonn, Germany

Process Consulting and Optimization (hands-on mentality) (Chemicals)

SGL Carbon

Lead the Logistics Process project for production, machining, sales and warehouse at the Bonn site with the goal of implementing a new, future-proof, sustainable logistics concept for maximum efficiency gains
Manage the Outsourcing of Part Groups project to an external service provider, including site and candidate selection, provider evaluation, offer collection and final contract drafting
Manage suppliers according to customer requirements
Develop a project plan to lead the Logistics Process project based on the previously created concept for production, machining, sales and warehouse
Create and adjust schedules and plan budgets
Track project milestones and monitor quality, cost and schedule targets
Prepare project status reports
Create detailed documentation
Achieved results: project plans, organization, process reliability, reports, request for proposals, negotiations, documentation and support in potential contract drafting

Jan 2019 - Dec 2019

1 year

Heidelberg, Germany

Purchasing and Production Manager (Medical Technology, Interim)

Luxendo GmbH

Strategic purchasing (supplier management, price negotiations)
Production planning (scheduling, lean approaches)

Jan 2017 - Dec 2018

2 years

Nürtingen, Germany

Process Consulting and Optimization (Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturer and Distributor of Power Tools, Interim)

Metabo Werke

Process optimization based on EWM (Extended Warehouse Management)
Layout planning of existing areas to boost revenue
Relocation of areas (expansion and optimization of the goods issue area)
Setting up an external warehouse
Moving goods issue/export to another site
Planning the construction of a new storage and production hall including selection of suitable builders
Leading workshops and training employees
Interim management of goods issue and the shipping office

Jan 2017 - Dec 2017

1 year

Laupheim, Germany

Department Head and Process Optimization (Pharmaceutical Packaging Technology Supplier, Interim)

Uhlmann Pac

Optimize logistics processes after commissioning a new logistics center
Adapt or create new documentation (completely new logistics setup)
Optimize goods receipt (delivery guidelines, advance notices)
Optimize goods issue (layout planning)
Eliminate existing backlogs in collaboration with four customer departments
Organize internal transports (takt assembly and disposal)
Implement and optimize milk runs
Apply 5S and Kaizen approaches combined with lean management
Serve as subproject leader in the lean project to optimize takt assembly
Design value streams
Perform weak point analysis
Create an employee quality matrix
Train employees in the process
Validate the new system for capacity and utilization levels
Validate all introduced changes

Jan 2016 - Dec 2016

1 year

Bad Hersfeld, Germany

Department Head and Process Optimization (Electrical Wholesale, Interim)

Hagemeyer Deutschland

Introducing Lean Management in cable harness assembly
Cross-departmental process optimization (goods receipt, goods issue, picking, shipping)
Employee training in the process
Communication training for future managers
Documentation of processes (operating procedures, work instructions, SOP, work instructions, work instructions)

Jan 2015 - Dec 2016

2 years

Hanover, Germany

Department Head for Process Optimization of the Logistics Unit 'Campaigns and New Products' (Interim)

EDC GmbH Universal Studio's

Controlling the order and material flow in goods receipt, picking, shipping and storage
Continuous review and improvement of processes and workflows in cooperation with operational logistics and logistics planning for campaign and new product handling
Organizing fulfillment and shipping handling for campaigns and new products
Coordination and management of external warehouses

Jan 2013 - Dec 2015

3 years

Tuttlingen, Germany

Interim Logistics Planner (Medical Technology)

Karl Storz Endoskope

Optimizing storage and picking systems
Involvement in the new implementation of EWM as a consulting and advisory participant
Relocation of logistics units (from old building to new building)
Development of key performance indicator systems
Environmental management (preparation for certification according to ISO EN 14001 and EMAS)

Jan 2012 - Dec 2012

1 year

Germany

Interim Operations Manager (Rail Technology)

Veola Verkehrsvereine

Site management in Husum and Brandenburg in a 24/7 operation
Process optimization
Quality management
Management of two production sites

Jan 2011 - Dec 2011

1 year

Klettgau, Germany

Interim Head of Logistics and Project Manager for Logistics Planning (Measurement Technology)

Bucher Hydrauliks

Leading supply chain management
Planning a new logistics center
Implementing a logistics cost accounting system
Cost optimization
Environmental management (preparation for certification according to ISO EN 14001)

Jan 2010 - Dec 2010

1 year

Biberach, Germany

Interim project manager for process-secure master data maintenance (service)

Hydro

Introduction of quality management in data collection
Adaptation of the existing ERP system (SAP)

Jan 2010 - Dec 2010

1 year

Neu-Isenburg, Germany

SCM manager

LSG Sky Chefs Catering Logistics GmbH

Process-secure master data maintenance (creditors, debtors and materials)
Analysis of master data for consistency regarding procurement, storage and sales
Invoice verification and correction based on contracts, purchase orders and customer orders

Jan 2009 - Dec 2009

1 year

Spain

Supply chain manager (technology corporation)

Siemens Mobility

Cost determination of contractually defined goods for the customer Renfe
Optimization of the process landscape
Harmonization of different PPS systems

Jan 2009 - Dec 2009

1 year

Germany

Head of supply chain management, purchasing and logistics (electrical engineering)

TSP Systems GmbH

Procurement of electronic production materials
Inventory management (organization, processes, SOP)
Inventory responsibility
Introduction of quality management in data collection
Adaptation of the existing ERP system (SAP)

Jan 2008 - Dec 2008

1 year

Tangshan, China

Logistics manager (technology corporation)

Siemens Mobility

Head of logistics at the Fengrun site in China
Reorganization of logistics processes
Production planning

Jan 2007 - Dec 2007

1 year

Neitersen, Germany

Head of Supply Chain Management (Rail Technology)

Axtone GmbH

Supplier management
Lean production
Order management
Environmental management (preparation for certification to ISO EN 14001)

Jan 2000 - Dec 2007

8 years

Hofheim, Germany

Head of Logistics (Technology Group)

Deublin GmbH

Establishing the logistics department
Implementing IT- and barcode-supported picking
Process and project management
Environmental management (certification to ISO EN 14001)

Jan 1994 - Dec 2000

7 years

Geisenheim, Germany

Strategic / Operational Buyer (Printing Press Manufacturing)

MAN Roland

Responsibility for a purchasing volume of 4–6 million
Project management for prototype introduction
Procurement planning

Jan 1988 - Dec 1994

7 years

Geisenheim, Germany

Deputy Head of Logistics Department (Printing Press Manufacturing)

MAN Roland

Organizational and process setup
Monitoring of goods receipts
Ongoing responsibility for inventory
Project management for 'Lean functions throughout the entire material flow'

Jan 1983 - Dec 1988

6 years

Geisenheim, Germany

Warehouse Specialist (Printing Press Manufacturing)

MAN Roland

Performed warehouse specialist duties in printing press manufacturing

Jan 1981 - Dec 1983

3 years

Geisenheim, Germany

Machine Fitter (Printing Press Manufacturing)

MAN Roland

Tasks as a machine fitter in printing press manufacturing

Industries Experience

See where this freelancer has spent most of their professional time. Longer bars indicate deeper hands-on experience, while shorter ones reflect targeted or project-based work.

Experienced in Manufacturing (40.5 years), Pharmaceutical (5 years), Healthcare (5 years), Automotive (3 years), Transportation (3 years), and Chemical (2 years).

Manufacturing

Pharmaceutical

Healthcare

Automotive

Transportation

Chemical

Business Areas Experience

The graph below provides a cumulative view of the freelancer's experience across multiple business areas, calculated from completed and active engagements. It highlights the areas where the freelancer has most frequently contributed to planning, execution, and delivery of business outcomes.

Experienced in Logistics (32.5 years), Project Management (28.5 years), Supply Chain Management (22.5 years), Operations (12.5 years), Procurement (12.5 years), and Sustainability Management (11 years).

Logistics

Project Management

Supply Chain Management

Operations

Procurement

Sustainability Management

Summary

Supply Chain Manager / Plant Manager / Department Head / Logistics Manager / Specialist Division Head / SCM/Logistics/Production Process and Process & Project Manager with international project management practical experience
Business Administrator, 63 years old
Interim Manager and Consultant for over 15 years with focus on SCM, process optimization, logistics planning, employee training/coaching
a high level of social competence and teamwork skills
hands-on mentality
a strong interest in employees' professional development combined with operational and HR management knowledge
successful team leader of small to larger employee and work groups
entrepreneurial and strategic thinking
strong in conceptual and organizational skills as well as a process-oriented approach
a high willingness to perform and the ability to self-motivate
professional competence, drive to succeed, and assertiveness

Neutrality: I am open, act in a solution-oriented way without personal emotions

Fairness: I only get involved where it is really necessary to achieve the objective.

Professionalism: I always apply high standards to ensure the quality of my work.

Skills

Technical Business Administrator
Lecturer In Logistics, Aug And General Economics And Business Administration
Extensive Knowledge Of Lean Management And Distribution
Order Processing, Scheduling, Procurement
Contract Management
Change Management
Project And Process Management (Scrum)
Environmental Management
Production Planning, Complete Material Flow (Value Stream)
Strategic/operational Procurement Market Orientation
Procurement Market Eu And Asia/china
Leadership Experience (8-100 Employees)
Erp System Knowledge
Sap Knowledge Mm And Pp Module / Ewm
Trainer Qualification/experience / Lecturer In Adult Education
Good Ms Office Skills
Lean Management
Materials Management
Distribution / Fulfillment
Project Management (Scrum)
Process Reliability (Lean/kaizen)
Logistics Planning (Value Stream Design)
Outsourcing / Make-or-buy Of Logistics Services
Site Selection
Warehouse Planning Of A Hall (Construction) Through To Implementation (Layout, Documentation)
Environmental Management
Plant Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Commercial Vehicle Manufacturing
Rail Technology
Aviation
Industrial Services
Trade And Distribution
Medical Technology / Chemicals
Pharmaceuticals
Automotive Suppliers
It // Sap R/3, Sap Ewm, Ms Office, Lotus, Linux, Proalpha, Jd Edwards, Mapixc

Languages

German

Native

English

Intermediate

Education

Oct 2001 - Jun 2003

University of Applied Sciences in Hesse

Logistics Specialist · Germany

Oct 1993 - Jun 1994

Chamber of Commerce in Hesse

Technical Business Administrator · Germany

Oct 1986 - Jun 1988

Chamber of Commerce in Hesse

Master Craftsman in Mechanical Engineering · Germany

...and 1 more

Certifications & licenses

Environmental specialist, officer, environmental auditor and operations auditor according to ISO EN 14001 and EMAS

TÜV Academy in Bavaria

Profile

Created

July 2025

Last Update

January 2026

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Frequently asked questions

Do you have questions? Here you can find further information.

Where is Ralph based?

Ralph is based in Neitersen, Germany and can operate in on-site, hybrid, and remote work models.

What languages does Ralph speak?

Ralph speaks the following languages: German (Native), English (Intermediate).

How many years of experience does Ralph have?

Ralph has at least 45 years of experience. During this time, Ralph has worked in at least 31 different roles and for 27 different companies. The average length of individual experience is 1 year and 5 months. Note that Ralph may not have shared all experience and actually has more experience.

What roles would Ralph be best suited for?

Based on recent experience, Ralph would be well-suited for roles such as: Interim Manager (hands-on mentality) and Consultant for Logistics Processes in Production Supply, Logistics Consulting (hands-on mentality) to increase productivity through concrete changes and measurable improvements, Interim Manager (hands-on mentality) and Logistics Consultant for Plant Relocation.

What is Ralph's latest experience?

Ralph's most recent position is Interim Manager (hands-on mentality) and Consultant for Logistics Processes in Production Supply at BMW Plant Leipzig.

What companies has Ralph worked for in recent years?

In recent years, Ralph has worked for BMW Plant Leipzig, Eltirc, Hübner GmbH, SwissloLog, and Optima Pharma GmbH.

Which industries is Ralph most experienced in?

Ralph is most experienced in industries like Manufacturing, Pharmaceutical, and Healthcare. Ralph also has some experience in Automotive, Transportation and Logistics, and Chemical.

Which business areas is Ralph most experienced in?

Ralph is most experienced in business areas like Logistics, Project Management, and Supply Chain Management. Ralph also has some experience in Operations, Procurement and Purchasing, and Sustainability Management.

Which industries has Ralph worked in recently?

Ralph has recently worked in industries like Manufacturing, Pharmaceutical, and Automotive.

Which business areas has Ralph worked in recently?

Ralph has recently worked in business areas like Logistics, Operations, and Project Management.

What is Ralph's education?

Ralph attended University of Applied Sciences in Hesse for Logistics Specialist.

Does Ralph have any certificates?

Ralph has 1 certificate: Environmental specialist, officer, environmental auditor and operations auditor according to ISO EN 14001 and EMAS.

What is the availability of Ralph?

Ralph is immediately available full-time for suitable projects.

What is the rate of Ralph?

Ralph's rate depends on the specific project requirements. Please use the Meet button on the profile to schedule a meeting and discuss the details.

How to hire Ralph?

To hire Ralph, click the Meet button on the profile to request a meeting and discuss your project needs.

Average rates for similar positions

Rates are based on recent contracts and do not include FRATCH margin.

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Market avg: 890-1050 €

The rates shown represent the typical market range for freelancers in this position based on recent contracts on our platform.

Actual rates may vary depending on seniority level, experience, skill specialization, project complexity, and engagement length.

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