In a traditional third-generation company specializing in surface finishing of single parts as well as small and large series in the metal and plastics industry, the quality management system according to DIN EN ISO 9001:2015 was completely revised and aligned with practical needs. As an external Quality Management Representative (QMB), main tasks included preparation and follow-up of internal and external audits as well as certification audits. Other tasks covered creating management reports, reviewing and actively updating quality assurance agreements, and training staff. Targeted measures successfully reduced the complaint rate.
As part of a part-time assignment, a quality management system according to DIN ISO 9001:2015 was introduced and implemented in a toolmaking company with about 40 employees in three-shift operations. This included creating the complete documentation, such as the quality manual, management reviews, work and process instructions, forms and workflows, and training staff. Preparation and follow-up of internal and external audits and certification audits were also carried out. The certification was passed with flying colors. The assignment ended after five months, with the internal Quality Management Representative successfully onboarded.
As interim Head of Quality Management at an international automotive supplier for well-known OEMs in body panel parts, the quality management system according to IATF 16949:2016 was completely revised and reoriented towards practice. This included streamlining processes, creating management reports, and preparing and following up on internal and external audits and certification audits. Customer visits were organized and managed, and further training for staff was promoted. Complaint handling was done using methods like 8D, 5-Why, and Ishikawa. Disciplinary leadership of the quality team and successful reduction of complaint costs were also part of the role. Quality assurance agreements were reviewed and actively updated. The interim assignment ended after six months due to a permanent position.
In a failure analysis project, the assembly process of a plant producing plastic housings for integrating electronic components for GPS signal amplification was examined. After shipment, cracks appeared in the housings, allowing water to enter and causing unit failures. By identifying optimization potentials in material selection, assembly, and sealing, targeted improvements were implemented. After redesigning and optimizing the assembly line, the failure cause was permanently eliminated. This led to a significant increase in customer satisfaction and a substantial reduction in scrap costs.
As interim Head of Quality Management at an international automotive supplier for well-known OEMs, the quality management system according to IATF 16949:2016 was completely revised and reoriented towards practice. Tasks included preparing and following up on internal and external audits and certification audits, introducing CAQ software, and handling complaints using methods like 8D, 5-Why, Ishikawa, and problem-solving sheets. Processes were streamlined and reoriented, management reports were created, and customer visits were managed. Further training for staff and collaboration with internal and external material testing institutes and suppliers were also intensified. Disciplinary leadership of 16 quality staff and successful reduction of complaint costs were included. Quality assurance agreements were reviewed and actively updated. The interim assignment ended after 20 months due to a permanent position.
In preparation for the re-certification of DIN ISO 9001:2015 for a globally operating industrial company in Lower Saxony with 1,200 employees, internal audits across the entire company were organized. This included planning, conducting, and documenting audits, reporting, and tracking corrective actions. Coordination of implementing identified improvement potentials was also ensured. The audit was successfully passed, confirming the company's sustainable compliance with quality standards.
Lead Auditor 9001-2015, working for three certification bodies.
After the sale of the traditional injection molding company to a new owner, a comprehensive restructuring was implemented. The goal was to optimize production processes by reducing setup times, improving tool availability, preheating, and material flows, and minimizing downtimes and scrap. Additional measures included introducing an organized material and color batch warehouse, structured workstations, and efficient workflows. Investments in modern equipment were made, with a focus on securing customer orders and jobs. Processes were streamlined to boost the company's long-term efficiency and competitiveness.
As external Quality Management Representative (QMB) for an international manufacturer and supplier of plain and roller bearing technology, the quality management system according to DIN EN ISO 9001:2015 was completely revised and aligned with practical needs. Tasks included preparing and following up on internal and external audits and certification audits. Complaint handling processes using the 8D method were optimized to respond more efficiently and effectively to customer feedback. Other tasks covered creating management reports, further training staff, reviewing and updating quality assurance agreements, and tracking and reducing internal complaint costs. Targeted measures significantly reduced the complaint rate and costs.
As interim Head of Quality Management at a renowned automotive supplier in Germany whose products are used in many premium vehicles, I managed the quality management department. Tasks included maintaining customer portals, coordinating internal QA staff, creating IMDS entries, and preparing and submitting samples according to APQP and PPAP. The internal quality management system according to ISO 9001:2015 was further developed and optimized. Other focuses were supporting customer, certification, and supplier audits and further training existing quality management staff in the company.
As external Quality Management Representative (QMB) in an injection molding and toolmaking company in the plastics industry, an outdated QM system was brought up to date and tailored to the company's specific needs. The complete revision and practical alignment of the quality management system according to DIN EN ISO 9001:2015 were carried out in close collaboration with departments. Tasks included preparing and following up on internal and external audits and certification audits, creating management reports, and reviewing and updating quality assurance agreements. Additionally, complaint costs were significantly reduced, and staff were trained in relevant quality processes. The assignment ended after two years due to a long-term alternative in a permanent position.
In preparing a globally operating textile company for its first project-based VDA 6.3 audit by their OEM customer, the quality management system was aligned with the specific requirements of the automotive industry. The goal was to integrate VDA requirements into the existing ISO 9001:2015 quality management system. This involved adapting processes, documenting relevant procedures, and training staff. The audit was successfully passed, confirming the company's suitability for the automotive industry.
As interim Head of Quality Management at a global company in the field of exhaust gas recirculation systems, the main goal was to resolve major quality issues with produced parts. Measures included setting up a Q-Gate to identify quality problems early and feeding issues back into earlier production phases for root cause analysis. In close cooperation with upstream departments, solutions to production problems were developed. Employees were trained on error characteristics and knowledge tests were introduced to strengthen quality awareness. These measures significantly reduced scrap rates and complaints and restored customer trust. As a result, follow-up projects were successfully placed by the customer. Additionally, the interim manager took on disciplinary leadership of the quality area across both plants. The project ended successfully with a planned permanent position at the client.
On behalf of a German OEM, a quality project was carried out at a Southern European supplier to analyze and resolve recurring functional failures in a component. The goal was to identify the causes of quality issues and work with the supplier to develop measures that would then be monitored for compliance. During a process audit at the supplier, various irregularities in the production process causing the failures were discovered. Measures were agreed upon and immediately integrated into the production process. The implementation and continuous monitoring of these measures led to a significant improvement in quality and stabilization of the redesigned processes in a short time. A follow-up audit based on a comprehensive sample confirmed the success of the measures. No further production issues or irregularities were found, and the supplier had regained its usual high performance.
Apprenticeship as Process Mechanic for Plastics/Rubber
Clamping force range from 1,000 t to 2,500 t and PVC extrusion
Processing machines by Krauss-Maffei, 1K injection molding
Worked in 2 shifts
Company size: 500 employees
Plant Manager
In this responsible role, I was in charge of overall plant management. Clamping force range: 50 t - 250 t, processing machines: Krauss-Maffei & Arburg, 1K injection molding & toolmaking. Personnel responsibility: 25 employees in 2 shifts. Company size: 25 employees.
Purchasing all operating resources to ensure production capability
Customer acquisition and relationship management
Preparing quotes and concluding framework agreements
Quality Management Representative (QMB) and Environmental Management Representative (UMB)
Conducting customer visits to strengthen relationships
Leading toolmaking to ensure product quality
Conducting capacity analyses to optimize production resources
Process optimization to increase efficiency
Sampling new tools and materials up to series release
Commissioning complex automation solutions to boost efficiency
Supporting tool design
Workforce planning and leadership for optimal staff utilization
Managing projects for later electroplating and/or painting
Employee training and apprenticeship training
Supporting certification audits to maintain quality standards
Coordinating temporary staffing agencies to ensure production capacity
Reducing unplanned downtimes to maximize production availability
This role requires extensive knowledge of injection molding and toolmaking, strong leadership skills, and high organizational talent to successfully achieve plant goals.
Head of Application Engineering
As Head of Application Engineering, I was responsible for clamping forces from 50 to 1,000 tonnes. Work was done with state-of-the-art processing machines from Arburg and Krauss-Maffei, including 1K and 2K injection molding and mono-sandwich technologies. I led a team of six employees in two shifts, with personnel management as a key task. Company size: 180 employees.
Sampling new tools and materials up to series release, which was crucial for quality assurance.
Commissioning complex automation solutions and continuously optimizing processes to boost efficiency and productivity.
Supporting tool design and actively contributing to the introduction of new technologies that revolutionized the production process.
Managing projects in electroplating and painting to ensure top surface finishing standards.
Creating training materials and conducting training sessions to promote staff education and development.
Relocating equipment to series production and overseeing it in various company subsidiaries to ensure a smooth transition.
Accompanying process approvals at well-known OEMs in the automotive and other industries to ensure compliance with strict quality requirements.
This role requires technical know-how, leadership strength, and the ability to develop and implement innovative solutions successfully. As Head of Application Engineering, I contributed significantly to maintaining the highest quality standards and continuously improving production processes.
Head of Injection Molding, Assembly & Work Preparation
In this responsible role, I led the injection molding, assembly, and work preparation departments. Clamping force range: 25 t - 1,800 t. Processing machines: Arburg, Krauss-Maffei, Engel, 1K – 3K injection molding. Personnel responsibility: 140 employees in 4 shifts. Company size: 180 employees.
Conducting capacity analyses and process optimizations
Sampling new tools and materials up to series release
Commissioning complex automation solutions
Supporting tool design
Workforce planning and leadership
Managing projects for subsequent electroplating and/or painting
Staff training and apprenticeship training
Supporting certification audits
Coordinating temporary staffing agencies
Reducing unplanned downtimes
Creating specifications for new injection molding machines and overseeing their on-site acceptance
Planning, introduction, and implementation of a BDE system (machine data acquisition)
Regular reporting to the executive board
This role requires extensive knowledge of injection molding processes, strong leadership skills, and high organizational talent to ensure efficiency and quality in production.
Production Manager
In this key role, I was responsible for the efficient management of the production department. Clamping force range: 15 t - 1000 t. Processing machines: Babyplast, Engel, Demag, Krauss-Maffei, 1K and 2K injection molding. Personnel responsibility: 30 employees across 3 shifts. Company size: 50 employees.
Conducting capacity analyses to optimize production workflows
Optimizing processes to improve efficiency and quality
Sampling new tools and materials up to series release
Commissioning complex automation solutions to improve production processes
Supporting mold design to ensure product quality
Planning and leading staff to ensure optimal workforce utilization
Managing projects in subsequent plating and/or painting
Training staff and apprentices
Supporting certification audits to meet quality standards
Coordinating staff leasing companies to ensure production capacity
Reducing unplanned downtime to maximize production availability
This position requires extensive knowledge of injection molding processes, strong leadership skills, and a high level of organizational talent to successfully achieve production goals.
Production Manager
In this responsible role, I was in charge of leading the production department. Clamping force range: 7.5 t - 200 t. Processing machines: Arburg, Babyplast, Engel, Demag, 1K and 2K injection molding. Personnel responsibility: 20 employees across 3 shifts, 64 injection molding machines. Company size: 80 employees.
Sampling new tools and materials up to series release
Commissioning complex automation solutions to boost efficiency
Optimizing processes to improve production workflows
Supporting mold design to ensure product quality
Planning and leading staff to ensure optimal workforce utilization
Managing projects in subsequent plating and/or painting
Training staff and apprentices
Supporting certification audits to meet quality standards
Overseeing weekend production to ensure production capacity
Coordinating staff leasing companies to support production processes
Reducing unplanned downtime to maximize production availability
Conducting capacity assessments to optimize resource utilization
This position requires extensive knowledge of injection molding processes, strong leadership skills, and a high level of organizational talent to successfully achieve production goals.
Team Leader (Shift Supervisor)
In the role of Team Leader (Shift Supervisor), I was responsible for the clamping force range of 25 to 400 tons and worked with processing machines from Arburg and Engel in 1K injection molding. I led a team of 10 employees across three shifts in a company of 100 employees.
Setting up, retooling, and commissioning injection molding machines to ensure smooth production flow.
Sampling new tools and materials to ensure production quality and efficiency.
Troubleshooting production disruptions to minimize downtime and maximize productivity.
Monitoring the machine park and performing minor maintenance to ensure operating readiness.
Leading and developing staff to foster a motivated and high-performing team.
Planning shifts to ensure optimal resource utilization.
Implementing tasks from management to effectively achieve company goals.
This position requires technical know-how, strong leadership, and the ability to make quick decisions in a dynamic environment. I significantly contributed to the efficiency and quality of production processes.
Plastics/Rubber Process Mechanic
In the role of Plastics/Rubber Process Mechanic, I was responsible for the clamping force range of 10 to 120 tons and worked with Arburg processing machines in 1K injection molding. I was employed by a company with 100 employees in a 2-shift operation.
Setting up, retooling, and commissioning injection molding machines to ensure smooth production flow.
Sampling new tools and materials to ensure production quality and efficiency.
Troubleshooting production disruptions to minimize downtime and maximize productivity.
Monitoring the machine park to ensure machine readiness and safety.
Performing minor maintenance to support machine longevity and prevent malfunctions.
This position requires technical know-how, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work efficiently in a dynamic environment. In this role, I contributed significantly to optimizing production processes and ensuring high quality standards.
Plastics/Rubber Process Mechanic
Further training to become an Industrial Foreman in Plastics/Rubber
In the role of Plastics/Rubber Process Mechanic, I was responsible for the clamping force range of 10 to 120 tons and worked with Arburg processing machines in 1K injection molding. I was employed by a company with 100 employees in a 2-shift operation.
Setting up, retooling, and commissioning injection molding machines to ensure smooth production flow.
Sampling new tools and materials to ensure production quality and efficiency.
Troubleshooting production disruptions to minimize downtime and maximize productivity.
Monitoring the machine park to ensure machine readiness and safety.
Performing minor maintenance to support machine longevity and prevent malfunctions.
This position requires technical know-how, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work efficiently in a dynamic environment. In this role, I contributed significantly to optimizing production processes and ensuring high quality standards.
Head of Quality Management
Automotive supplier for exterior and interior parts as well as assemblies
In this responsible role, I was in charge of establishing a new site, taking into account the standards and customer requirements mentioned above. Standards: ISO 9001:2015, IATF 16949:2026, VDA Volume 16. Company size: 180 employees. Personnel responsibility: 65 employees.
Implementation of a visual inspection for 60 employees across three shifts
Conducting internal system and product audits
Accompanying customer audits and visits
Holding quality meetings with customers domestically and abroad
Staff management and employee reviews
Preparation of inspection documents and the necessary documentation
Reporting to executive management
Obtaining approvals from customers
Creation of IMDS entries
Conducting employee training sessions
Creating and duplicating master samples
Key performance indicator management
This role requires comprehensive knowledge in quality management as well as strong leadership and communication skills to uphold the industry's high standards.
Summary
38 years of professional experience in injection molding with ongoing leadership responsibilities (shift supervisor, team leader, head of application engineering, production manager, plant manager). Focus on clamping forces from 7.5 t to 1,800 t and 1K, 2K, and 3K technologies. Core tasks: process optimization, serial production, quality management, resource and cost planning, staff leadership and development, training of technical and management personnel.
Solid machine knowledge of leading injection molding machine manufacturers, including Engel, Krauss-Maffei, Demag, and Babyplast.
Extensive experience in the automotive, electrical, furniture, metal, telecommunications, and household goods industries.
Strong electroplating knowledge, from determining the part design in the raw part production to quality assessment according to VDA Volume 16 and/or specific customer requirements.
Experience in various processing techniques, including mono-sandwich, insert molding and overmolding of leather, films, and textiles; large-area high-gloss PC covers; ceiling reflectors made of high-performance plastics; hard/soft connections; hybrid injection molding; white goods; translucent parts; production of exterior mirrors combined with gas injection molding (GID).
Many years of experience in sampling injection molding tools and optimizing them up to series release, sampling a wide range of plastics in different applications, managing projects, relocating complete processing lines, and developing concepts for fully automatic production.
Process expert in producing injection molded parts that include an additional finishing layer in electroplating or painting, aiming to make the product economically profitable.
Numerous automation and optimization projects involving existing or newly acquired peripherals, including integration, commissioning, and system optimization.
Languages
German
Native
Education
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Apprenticeship as Process Mechanic for Plastics/Rubber · Process Mechanic for Plastics/Rubber