2025 Automotive Trends: Balancing Challenges and Opportunities

Cars.com’s 2025 Automotive Trends report highlights a complex market shaped by high prices, increasing affordable options, and evolving definitions of “American-made” vehicles.

– Persistent Challenges:

New-car prices remain high at $49,000, despite interest rate cuts.

High loan delinquencies and declining used-car values complicate affordability.

– Positive Developments:

Inventory of new cars under $30,000 grew by 42% in 2024, offering hope for budget-conscious buyers.

Used EV prices dropped sharply, improving accessibility for cost-conscious consumers.

– Evolving Market Dynamics:

The definition of “American-made” is shifting, driven by domestic EV battery production and foreign automakers’ U.S.-based operations.

Hybrids are gaining traction, appealing to buyers seeking a balance between gas and electric vehicles.

While 2025 poses challenges, growing inventories, improved affordability in some segments, and new tools for shoppers provide opportunities for navigating the automotive landscape.

Experts in the Automotive Industry Asia

You need one, but don`t want to hire one permanently?

Our solution: To rent our experts

  • On pay-to-use basis
  • Completely flexible
  • Contract can be cancelled any time

Clearly represented reports and dashboards inclusive!



Frédéric LALOYEAU

General Manager, Plant Manager, Operations Manager
Sales, Business development, Projects, Transformation, Continuous improvement

Know-how and experience forged by 30 years’ experience
of which 20 years in General Management and Interim Management,
12 years in China in large groups, medium and small companies
for automotive components, industrial equipment, packaging, composite parts in Asia (China) / Europe (France, Russia, Serbia, Portugal) / Africa (Morocco)

With more than 30 years of experience in various industries and companies, I have acquired recognized expertise in strategic development and operations management, with special focus on:

  • Company overall performance
  • Operations efficiency and productivity
  • EBIT, ROI, Profit optimization
  • Strategy and Business development
  • Cost control
  • Non conformity management
  • Kundenzufriedenheit
  • Employees empowerment and satisfaction
  • Transformation, change, crisis and turnaround management

at different phases : start of operations, development of activity, critical situation, and turnaround emergency.

Walor, China – General Manager – Forged and machined metal parts for automotive

Acrelec, China – Interim Manager – Production , Quality – Self order kiosk for fast-food                         restaurants

Echosens, China – Interim Manager for Operations & Finance – Medical equipment

Cartolux, China – General Manager – Thermoformed medical packaging in clean room

Lik, China – Automated production lined – Consultant in Business Development

France, Maroc, Serbia Interim manager & Consultant

Johnson Controls, France, Russia – Automotive Tier1 – Commercial Director, Marking Director

Eybl – France, Morocco – Automotive supplier – General Manager

Faurecia, China, France, Portugal – General Manager China, International Development Manager

  • 2000-2001 HEC Paris, France MBA
  • 1986-1989 Ecole Central Marseille, France Master of Science in engineering

Manage the industrial operations, sales and business development of the subsidiary

Upgrade overall level of the plant by improving productivity, technology, procedures, reporting, …

Secure current business

Establish the company budget and business plan

Supervise new product, technologies, and processes industrialization, with support of the group

Maintain or develop strong relation with local customers, develop business with new customers

Ensure a proper administration of the plant in general

Thanks to diversified experience in various industries/products/processes, in several countries and company sizes, I can quickly understand and assess an environment to draw an improvement plan, covering all the activities (general management, strategy, production, quality, purchasing, supply chain, projects, sales, business development, HR, finance, ….).

With a strategic mindset as well as hands-on management, I am deeply involved in the actions, supporting the teams to achieve ambitious goals on time, driven by a continuous improvement mindset and a management by objectives.

I have strong leadership skills, independent thinking, organizational and planning abilities and excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.

People appreciate my commitment to the mission, enthusiasm, sense of organization, dynamism, numerous ideas and entrepreneurial mindset.

I coach and work with the teams to achieve ambitious goals and enhance individual enthusiasm and satisfaction. Thus I am quickly integrated in the organization and appreciated for my performance and results.

  • Thanks to diversified experience in various industries/products/processes, in several countries and company sizes, I can quickly understand and assess an environment to draw an improvement plan, covering all the activities (general management, strategy, production, quality, purchasing, supply chain, projects, sales, business development, HR, finance, ….).
  • With a strategic mindset as well as hands-on management, I am deeply involved in the actions, supporting the teams to achieve ambitious goals on time, driven by a continuous improvement mindset and a management by objectives.
  • I have strong leadership skills, independent thinking, organizational and planning abilities and excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • People appreciate my commitment to the mission, enthusiasm, sense of organization, dynamism, numerous ideas and entrepreneurial mindset.
  • I coach and work with the teams to achieve ambitious goals and enhance individual enthusiasm and satisfaction. Thus I am quickly integrated in the organization and appreciated for my performance and results.
  • Turnaround company loss to profit
  • Top KPI performance: 0 accident, 0 customer claims, 100% OTD, 100% customer audits and Certification audits passed
  • Prepare, negotiate and win significant businesses with new customers
  • Increase sales by 30%
  • Start production and recruit team in a new plant
  • Implement Office Lean management
  • Improve Employee satisfaction from “Low” to “very high”
  • Reduction in employee absenteism from 17,5% to 7%

Walor, China : upgraded overall organization and performance to exceed goals (100% On Time Deliveries, 0 official customers claim, 100% customer evaluation “A” or “Excellent”, 88% OEE, very high employee satisfaction, very low employee turnover and absenteeism) and reach high profitability.

Faurecia, China: I coordinated the whole engineering for the first 2 plants in China to manufacture seats and components; then I co-managed the start of production with the Chinese partner.

EYBl, France and Morocco: after having gained a big business for a major Tier1, I set-up a low-cost production workshop in Morocco within a very short time and meet customer planning and quality.

Cartolux, China : turnaround the profitability to 9%, (loss was -11% when I joined in) within 1 year.

Acrelec, China: launched production in a new plant within a few weeks and after 1 year got the ISO9001 certification. Designed and implemented processes which became new standards in the group.

  • I have strong leadership skills, independent thinking, organizational and planning abilities and excellent analytical and problem-solving skills and can quickly integrate a new environment.

Nationalität: French
Wohnort: Suzhou, China
Position: General Manager, Plant Manager, Interim Manager, Consultant
Geburtsjahr: 1965
Sprachen: French (native), English; Chinese (HSK3). German/Spanish/Portuguese: good basis

Christmas time and the end of the year

“The possibility of dreams coming true is what makes life interesting.” – Paulo Coelho

Christmas time and the end of the year – time to pause for a moment to preserve what has been tried and to start something new….

When we realize that the time we take for another person is the most precious thing we can give, we understand the meaning of Christmas. (Roswitha Bloch)

With this in mind, we wish you and your family hours of reflection, relaxation, happy holidays, and a good, joyful start to the New Year.

Christmas Greetings from Thailand to every Christian who loves our humanitarian service, consultant, and training of GTEC for Western companies to deal with their challenges in Asia, or for Chinese companies who want to go abroad to BRICS countries for investments.

———-

Yesterday, Friday, December 20th, our GTEC PROFIT GROWTH ACADEMY closed its doors for the CHRISTMAS PARTY in HONGKONG (see picture) and some other events with my family there will follow, but GTEC will be back to continue on Dec 26, with an extraordinary Profit Growth investment project in Thailand.

​This year has been filled with incredible achievements, connections, and shared successes. Thank you to our team, freelancers, business partners, participants, experts, and professors for making it all possible.

We wish you a joyful holiday season and an inspiring start to 2025.

The Power of Guanxi in Chinese Business Culture

Expanding your business into Asia, particularly China, can be challenging if you’re unfamiliar with local business customs. In China, Guanxi—the intricate network of personal and professional relationships—is crucial for success. But what exactly is Guanxi, and how can you build and handle it effectively? We’ll answer these questions and more as we support you throughout your international expansion strategy.

What is Guanxi?

Guanxi is the cornerstone of business relationships in China and a fundamental concept in Chinese society. While it can be loosely translated as “network,” “relationship,” or “circle,” its deeper meaning refers to the web of “involved relationships” that link individuals. Essentially, Guanxi encompasses everything related to personal and professional connections.

For Europeans, the concept of Guanxi can be challenging to grasp, as it blends business and personal ties—something that contrasts with the more distinct separation between work and personal life in Europe.

In practice, Guanxi functions like a trusted contact book, but with a key difference: it is made up of people you can rely on. It’s a system that allows you to tap into your network for support, particularly in business, where connections are often the key to success.

The Role of Guanxi in an Outsourcing Strategy

In Chinese business culture, trust and belonging form the foundation of relationships. Building guanxi—a network of trusted connections—requires time, but once established, it becomes a powerful tool. Chinese partners, bound by guanxi, are often willing to provide extensive support.

This system reinforces hierarchical roles, fostering trust and exclusivity in business dealings. For instance, businesses may avoid entering markets already occupied by others out of respect for established relationships.

Additionally, Guanxi helps prevent public humiliation by resolving issues discreetly. When challenges arise, Chinese individuals and businesses prefer to consult their Guanxi network rather than risk public embarrassment.

At its core, Guanxi operates as an exchange of favors. It involves offering a favor at one time, with the expectation of receiving a service of greater value in the future. This asymmetrical dynamic sustains and strengthens the relationship, as providing a greater return ensures the bond remains active. Conversely, failing to honor this norm can lead to social exclusion. Guanxi is not a permanent commitment but requires consistent effort to maintain.

At its core, guanxi operates as an exchange of favors—a service offered today is repaid with a greater favor in the future, maintaining and strengthening the relationship. However, guanxi requires ongoing effort to sustain. Neglecting this social norm risks severing the relationship, and failing to reciprocate appropriately can lead to exclusion from the network.

For companies, guanxi is a strategic asset. A strong network, especially one that includes investors, can significantly push business growth. Chinese investors are active participants in these networks and often share valuable insights on platforms like Zhihu, a popular social media platform for exchanging knowledge. Cultivating and leveraging Guanxi can, therefore, offer a competitive edge in navigating the complexities of the Chinese market.

How to Build Guanxi

Establishing Guanxi begins with forming a foundation of trust, which must be both absolute and mutual. Entry into a Guanxi network typically requires sponsorship from a trusted third party who can introduce you to key individuals. This trust transcends simple professional relationships, as all parties involved commit to a mutually beneficial, win-win collaboration. The principle of reciprocity is central to building and sustaining Guanxi, where both sides make consistent efforts to maintain a stable relationship.

Steps to Establish Guanxi

Participate in Events and Gatherings

Joining external events, such as business lunches or networking functions, is an effective way to initiate Guanxi. These settings provide an opportunity to learn and adhere to cultural norms, such as bringing a thoughtful gift and presenting it with proper etiquette. Observing these rules demonstrates respect and leaves a positive impression.

Respect Cultural Norms

Understanding and respecting Chinese habits and social norms are critical. For example:

Toasting Etiquette: During a toast, the position of your glass reflects respect. When toasting with someone of higher rank, ensure your glass is slightly lower than theirs.

Nonverbal Communication: Avoid raising your voice or gesturing excessively when expressing opinions, as these actions are considered impolite and may harm your reputation.

Adaptability

Being adaptable is essential, particularly when interacting with individuals of higher status. Demonstrating cultural sensitivity and adjusting your behavior to align with social norms will help you foster strong relationships.

Word of Mouth

Recommendations and introductions through word of mouth are powerful tools for expanding Guanxi. In Chinese culture, trusted endorsements carry significant weight and can open doors to valuable connections.

Incorporating Guanxi into Your Presentation

  • Feature People: Include photos of colleagues, clients, or teams you’ve collaborated with to showcase your relationships and emphasize a spirit of cooperation.
  • Share Experiences: Highlight images from events, milestones, or gatherings to create a personal, relatable narrative.
  • Recognize Partners: Display logos of partner companies and images of key clients or suppliers to show respect and appreciation for the network supporting your business.

The Economic Benefits of Guanxi

When built and maintained effectively, Guanxi becomes a strategic asset that can enhance both business growth and career development. A strong Guanxi network can save time, provide access to resources, and serve as a catalyst for long-term success.

In particular, having an investor within your Guanxi network is highly advantageous. Investors not only provide financial backing but also lend credibility and support, making business development smoother and more efficient.

Respecting cultural norms, committing to reciprocity, and engaging actively in meaningful interactions are key to building a robust Guanxi, which can offer significant personal and professional advantages.

If you have further questions, or suggestions, or would like to discuss more about cross-cultural presentations, feel free to reach out. Let’s learn together and make each presentation a step toward genuine connection and successful collaboration. If you want to learn more about our sales initiatives in Asia, Europe, and BRICS countries for your products as well as our open posts as an expert in your field, please write us at [email protected].

Experts in the Automotive Industry Asia

You need one, but don`t want to hire one permanently?

Our solution: To rent our experts

  • On pay-to-use basis
  • Completely flexible
  • Contract can be cancelled any time

Clearly represented reports and dashboards inclusive!



Effective Cost Cutting in Asia: Practical Modern Approach for Managers and Engineers in Industry to Achieve Profit Growth (Management for Professionals)

New release. Delivery before Christmas, writes Amazon. Customer review: 5.0

The days of cheap raw materials and energy sources are gone. Suppliers will demand price increases due to the rising costs of energy and materials. This book describes how your purchasing department is able to gain (more) profit for your company and includes new ideas for successful purchasing and supplier development in Asia. The author discusses how to reduce costs in productive (BOM) and non-productive materials (NPMs) and how to calculate product and tool costs. As well, the book shows ways to negotiate your results with your suppliers in Asia and build an effective system of supplier relationship management.

Read here

Effective Cost Cutting in Asia: Practical Modern Approach for Managers and Engineers in Industry to Achieve Profit Growth (Management for Professionals)

Management in China: Leitfaden zur praktischen, interkulturellen Umsetzung (German Edition)

Management in China.
Wer in Asien geschäftlich aktiv ist, sollte das Buch gelesen haben – das schreibt die Presse zu Recht.
Das Buch gibt Hunderte von konkreten Anregungen, wägt auf allen Ebenen verschiedene Konzepte zur Problemlösung auf ihre Anwendbarkeit in der Praxis ab, und schildert im Detail, wie sich messbare Verbesserungen erzielen lassen. Das Spektrum erstreckt sich von der Geschäftsentwicklung und Restrukturierung über Einkauf, Vertrieb, Fertigung, Logistik, Standortwahl und Qualitätsmanagement bis hin zur erfolgreichen Verhandlungsführung in China.
Lieferung noch vor Weihnachten, schreibt Amazon
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Diplomatic Council e.V. (February 24, 2023)
Language ‏ : ‎ German
Print length ‏ : ‎ 187 pages

Management in China: Leitfaden zur praktischen, interkulturellen Umsetzung (German Edition)

Torsten Pfefferkorn

Experienced Interim Operations Manager

He is an experienced Interim Operations Manager with extensive expertise in the automotive industry. His career is characterized by strategic thinking and operational excellence. He specializes in change management and process optimization.

Base on special knowledges, such as Strategy and deploy management, KPI management, Lean management, Quality management, Project management, Time management, Leadership management, etc., combined his working experience and lesson learned, always led and supported many clients to achieve the target(s) successfully, include but not limited:

  • Optimize operational efficacy
  • Optimize supply chain management
  • Improve productivity and quality performance in plant
  • Improve ability of R&D for New product/project
  • Improve ability of management system and work team

Meanwhile, according development tendency of Industry 4.0/China 2025, he always studies that how to implement enterprise transformation efficiently. On the basis of expectations and reality, support them become more lean or more automation or more intelligence.

Volkswagen ATJ, Tianjin VR China Head of Product Technology, Quality Assurance (2018-2020) Head of Quality Assurance, Purchased Parts DL382 (2011-2018) Managed 25 employees. Fault analysis and product optimization.

Volkswagen ATD, Dalian VR China Head of Heat-Treating Department (2020-2021). Responsible for 250 employees. Process optimization and quality assurance. Led the Task Force Japan.

Liebherr MCCtec GmbH Team Leader, Strategic Purchasing (2022-2023). Focus on outsourcing to Asian suppliers, supplier management, material group, and procurement strategies

  • 1969-1979 Secondary education at the Polytechnic OS Pablo Neruda Greifswald.
  • 1979-1981 Training as an automotive mechanic at the Greifswald vehicle repair plant.
  • 1981-1984 Vocational instructor for electronic navigation at the Fleet School Walter Steffens Stralsund
  • 2015: Nomination to Volkswagen AG’s Management Circle
  • 2014: Management Assessment Center, Volkswagen Group Academy
  • 2013: Process Auditor VDA 6.3 Module A + BII, TÜV Süd Academy
  • Office software
  • Project software
  • AutoCAD, UG
  • Quality tools (SPS, Minitab, etc.)
  • VB, Assembly Language
1. Logistics. Key technology for efficient production
  1. Product portfolio analysis (products, dimensions, weights, etc.)
  2. Throughput analysis
  3. Space analysis
  4. Material flow analysis
  5. Incl. delivery and collection areas
  6. Information flow analysis
  7. Logistics solution: concept development based on 1-6
  8. Detailed solution
  9. Supplier selection
  10. Installation
  11. Implementation including commissioning and connection to the internal IT system
  12. Integration of customers and suppliers into the logistics system
2. Automation
3. Installation/Relocation
4. Improvement of existing processes,  cost reduction, waste reduction, inventory reduction
  1. Weak point analysis
  2. Technical and/or organizational solution
  3. Investment budget with ROI calculation
  4. Implementation
5. The development of processes for new products is also important.
  1. Implementation from laboratory production to mass production,
  2. Including the development of new technology

Future-oriented focus:

  1. E-Mobility: Ready to meet the challenges of electromobility. Focus on innovative manufacturing methods.
  2. Digitalization: Utilizing modern technologies for process optimization. Industry 4.0 concepts in production.
  3. Sustainability: Commitment to environmentally friendly production methods. Focus on resource efficiency and CO2 reduction
  • Strategic Thinking: Development and implementation of corporate strategies focused on long-term goals and sustainable growth while aligning operations with business objectives and anticipating market trends.
  • Team Leadership: Experience in leading large teams, with a focus on fostering talent and promoting employee development, while ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
  • Process Optimization: Ongoing improvement of workflows to boost efficiency, productivity, and cost-effectiveness, ensuring smoother operations and greater overall performance
  1. Quality Management Extensive knowledge in quality assurance and control. Implementation of quality management systems.
  2. Supplier Management Experience in building and maintaining supplier relationships. Ensuring quality and on-time delivery.
  3. Production Technology Deep understanding of manufacturing processes. Optimization of production flows in the automotive industry
  • Change Management: Successful leadership of change initiatives. Adaptability to new challenges.
  • Crisis Management: Experience handling complex situations. Quick and effective problem-solving.
  • Intercultural Competence: Extensive experience in international teams. Understanding of cultural differences


Sale up for Germany customer

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Operation cost down for a local company

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  • Support plant management for new automatic production line
  • Exit top focus for tier2 customers
  • Audited and coached the suppliers of OEM
  1. China: Many years of service at Volkswagen in China (2011-2021). Managed various departments in Tianjin and Dalian
  2. Global Assignments: Service deployments in various countries (2008-2011). Expanded intercultural understanding.
  • Quality Management System (IATF16949) / Production Management System (Lean/CI)
  • Strategic and Deployment
  • Balanced Score Card & KPI
  • NPI Management
  • Project Management
  • Process Optimize Management (VDA6.3/Lean process)
  • Lean/TPS Management (include administer / R&D / manufacture /logistical)
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Industry 4.0

Torsten Pfefferkorn

Nationalität: Deutsch
Wohnort: Germany
Position: Interim Operations Manager
Geburtsjahr: 1963
Sprachen: German, English, Russian

Klaus J. Steinhauser

Manufacturing, Automotive Industries, Food and retail Industry, FMCG market, Defense, Chemicals, Metal Mechanics, Plastics, Textile industry, Private Equity and family Businesses, Financial Services, and Consulting.

I am a reputable Senior Interim Manager – C-Level proven track record of over 38 years of experience.

Last 7 years from 2016 to 2022 in charge of 25 restructuring projects covering all aspects of Operations, Finance, Administrative, and Customer relationships, involved in high-level negotiations and Companies under financial Stress.

Base on special knowledges, such as Strategy and deploy management, KPI management, Lean management, Quality management, Project management, Time management, Leadership management, etc., combined his working experience and lesson learned, always led and supported many clients to achieve the target(s) successfully, include but not limited:

  • Optimize operational efficacy
  • Optimize supply chain management
  • Improve productivity and quality performance in plant
  • Improve ability of R&D for New product/project
  • Improve ability of management system and work team

Meanwhile, according development tendency of Industry 4.0/China 2025, he always studies that how to implement enterprise transformation efficiently. On the basis of expectations and reality, support them become more lean or more automation or more intelligence.

TRW do Brazil S/A -Engine valves From Jan 1986 to November 1988 Trainee Engineer – Quality and Productivity Coordinator

NHK / Rassini – Suspension Systems From November 1988 to October 1991 Senior Engineer / R&D Manager

Presstécnica Ltda – Cold Forming – acting in the USA for new process technology, suppliers, and customer meetings From June 1992 to June 1994 Head of Quality / Lean Manufacturing Manager

Thyssen Krupp, Bilstein – Suspension Systems October 1994 – October 1998 Key Account Manager; Program Manager (Sales & Marketing with Product Engineering integrated)

Volkswagen, São Paulo – BR – New Cars Launching (Anchieta, Taubate and Curitiba Plants) March 1999 – December 2003 Process Team Leader at Advanced Manufacturing Engineering Strategic Planning Team Leader

ZF TRW – Steering Systems acting in France and Germany on Management Meeting Review, transferring technology, new product development, and Quality & Engineering Annual Meeting From March 2004 to September 2005 Senior Manager of Quality & Product and Process Engineering / Member of the Board – Reginal Site

Transtechnology ( TTB ), São Paulo – BR – Stamping and Fasteners acting in Germany for meetings with customers and Auto Parts Fair From December 2005 to February 2011 Corporate Senior Manager of Quality & Environment and Continuous Improvement; Senior Manager of Product, Process Engineering and Lean Six Sigma; Member of Advisory Board

Pematec Triangle São Paulo – BR – Sun Visors, Head Support, Seat Systems, Roof, Trim Door, Carrier backache March 2011 – March 2013 Director of Quality & Environment and Continuous Improvement, Risk Management, Supply Chain and Strategic Planning Interim General Plant Manager and Member of Board of Directors

BRAZILIAN GROUP – Private Equity March 2014 – December 2014 Senior Director / Chief Restructuring Officer / Freelancer by KJS Business Partner

CRW Plastics Group – Brazil , USA, Slovakia April 2015 – November 2015 Senior Corporate Quality Assurance & Environmental / Chief Restructuring Officer

ADS – Advanced Decorative System, CHINA and HUNGARY Plants solving problems from suppliers and supporting customers in Germany, France, Tunisia, Austria, Czech Republic, Slovakia April 2016 – October 2017 Senior Quality Director; Process Improvement Manager; Senior Interim Manager; Turnaround and Business Restructuring / Plant Manager

Novares Group, Chihuahua – MEXICO Project BMW G05/06/07 From Jun. 2018 – Nov 2018 Senior Program Director

Automotive Lighting, – Marelli Group -Lighting Systems, Projects for VW, AUDI and BMW Cd Juarez – MEXICO From Nov. 2018 – Feb 2019 Senior Interim Management Consultant / Program Manager

Valeo Thermal Systems – MEXICO San Luis Potosi – MEX May 2019 – Jul 2019 Senior VPS Manager / BU Turnaround Operations

Schlemmer – Brazil Support for Kronberg & Schubert Germany Oct 2019 – Nov 2019 Senior Interim Manager

Automotive Lighting, – Marelli Group – Mexico, Project supporting high-level escalation for Mercedes Benz From Jan. 2020 – April 2020 Senior Interim Management Consultant / QMS Expert

Protev International GmbH/ Protev Group ASIA; EUROPE, CENTRAL, AND SOUTH AMERICA Manufacturing Companies Restructuring / New Product Launching / High-Level Escalations from Demanded Customers Worldwide; Quality Assurance; Plant Management; Operations Performance Improvement From March. 2016 to December 2020 Senior Partner / Global Consultant Project Leader / Senior Interim Manager / Program Manager / Quality Director / Plant Operations Manager

ARYZTA GROUP ( By Atreus GmbH ) – Food Industry – From March to September 2021 Interim CRO – Chief Restructuring Officer in charge of Operations Turnaround and Change Management for 6 Plants in Brazil in all areas of the business. Preparation for the M&A / Transition for Company Sale / Cost Reduction Projects, P&L, assuring US$ 12 Million EBITDA in 2021. Delivered US$ 10,5 Million saving costs in 4 months.

PAKNAM.Co ( FMCG and Chemical Industry ) – From Aug. 2022 to March 2023 Interim CRO – Chief Restructuring Officer in charge of Business Transformation, Operations Restructuring, Business Assessment, KPI reviewing, SWOT, Business Plan review and Deployment, Cost Reduction Projects, Lean Manufacturing Implementation.

EXCELLANCE ( Turnaround Management ) – From Nov 2023 to Aug 2024 ASSOCIATE / INTERIM CRO at Leao & Jetex a Textile Company located in Brazil In charge com Operations, Sales & Marketing, Finance, and Cash Flow Complete company reshaping, cost reduction, increased margin, reorganization chart, RH on-demand implementation, S&M Restructuring, deployment from Strategy to operational, Supply Chain, Production and Quality improvements.

KJS Business Partner & Consulting- Brazil Since Feb 2011 Managing Partner and CFO Several Projects for medium companies including Financial services; M&A activities, Valuation; Due Diligences; Asset and Contracts Management; Cost Reduction Plans; Investments, Expenses and Budget Management; Business Modeling; Investors and Shareholders relations; Liabilities negotiations with Banks and other Creditors; Project Finance; Controlling ; Treasure ; Cash Flow Management; Turnaround, Crisis Management, Restructuring.

Scholarship:

· 1983 to 1988, Mechanical Engineer Degree, FEI, Sao Paulo – BR

· 1990 to 1991, Post Graduated in Automotive Engineering – FEI, São Paulo – BR

· 2009 – 2010 – MBA in Business Management ( FGV ) Fundação Getulio Vargas, São Paulo – BR

  • Production Administration ( FEI ).
  • Theory of Constrictions ( Enfoque Consulting ).
  • Kaizen ( TBM Consulting ).
  • Just in Time ( IMAM ).
  • Total Quality for executives ( SENAI ).
  • VDA 6.3 – AUDITOR – IQA INSTITUTE
  • FMEA ( Failure Mode and Effect Analysis ).
  • SPC ( Advanced Statistical Process Control ) – TRW Automotive
  • Global APQP
  • Global 8D
  • QSB ( Quality System Basic ) – Fiat & GM
  • DOE ( Design of Experiments ) – Reliasoft
  • Auditor CQI – 9 Heat Treatment Process
  • Auditor CQI -11-12 Surface Treatment Process
  • Auditor CQI – 15 Welding Process
  • Product Security – Qmax ( O&M specific requirement for Risk Management )
  • Lean Manufacturing – Staufen Consulting
  • Advisory Counselor – FGV
  • Office software
  • Project software
  • AutoCAD, UG
  • Quality tools (SPS, Minitab, etc.)
  • VB, Assembly Language
1. Logistics. Key technology for efficient production
  1. Product portfolio analysis (products, dimensions, weights, etc.)
  2. Throughput analysis
  3. Space analysis
  4. Material flow analysis
  5. Incl. delivery and collection areas
  6. Information flow analysis
  7. Logistics solution: concept development based on 1-6
  8. Detailed solution
  9. Supplier selection
  10. Installation
  11. Implementation including commissioning and connection to the internal IT system
  12. Integration of customers and suppliers into the logistics system
2. Automation
3. Installation/Relocation
4. Improvement of existing processes,  cost reduction, waste reduction, inventory reduction
  1. Weak point analysis
  2. Technical and/or organizational solution
  3. Investment budget with ROI calculation
  4. Implementation
5. The development of processes for new products is also important.
  1. Implementation from laboratory production to mass production,
  2. Including the development of new technology

I am Brazilian, 59 years old, a Mechanical Engineer, Post Degree in Automotive Engineering and in General Administration, an MBA in Business Management, Certified Advisory Counselor with an extensive grid of professional training. Senior Interim Manager for over 12 years, delivering knowledge & experience oriented to reduce costs and increase profit, through the application of contemporaneous tools and methodologies to create a competitive, reliable, and better work environment.

More experience and more thinking and more innovation:

  • IATF16949/VDA6.3
  • Effective project management for NPI/project
  • Lean/TPS apply more areas (office management, R&D, production/shop flow, logistic, etc.)
  • Quality performance management (internal/external, 3rd-party)
  • Supply chain management
  • Excellent management for plant
  • Excellent management system

Committees and Associations:

  • SAE BRASIL for subject vehicle development area. o A.E.A ( Automotive Engineering Association ), with presentations in Comfort and Suspensions System Cases.
  • CBS ( Brazilian Ironworks Committee ) and ABNT; establishment of standardization criteria for laminated steel requirements.
  • ANFIR ( National Association of Roads Implements Manufacturers ): Presentation of Proposal for National Creativity and Competitiveness Program.
  • SINDIPEÇAS: Participation in the Implementation of Productivity and Quality Brazilian Program.


Sale up for Germany customer

0

%

Operation cost down for a local company

0

%

  • Support plant management for new automatic production line
  • Exit top focus for tier2 customers
  • Audited and coached the suppliers of OEM
  • My last positions in my country were as Senior Corporate Quality Assurance Director in charge of 5 plants manufactured globally as Interim Chief Restructuring Officer- CRO responsible for 6 plants for FMCG and Retail food Industry and as Associate / CRO Chief Restructuring Officer for a Textile Company.
  • Experience and years of a rising career in small, medium, and large Industrial markets. Complete mastery of World Class Manufacturing in Operations (WCM) and its support areas ( Product Development – R&D, Processes Engineering, Quality Assurance & Environmental, Purchasing, Logistics, HR, Finance, Supply Chain, Maintenance, Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, Kaizen Projects, Plant performance improvement ). Great skill in training and high-performance team management.
  • 15 years with effective participation as a member of the Board and representative of top management. Young profile, trainer, owner vision, with a strong inclination to control companies in crisis and financial stress or even greenfield.
  • Great expertise and overall management of the company’s activities, developing and implementing strategies in Commercial, Administrative, Financial, Operational, and overall Business. Expertise in management, process optimization, action plan to improve results, restructuring and corporate recovery, development, and implementation of strategic plans, tactical and operational KPIs Key performance indicators. Great resourcefulness and ability to explore, trade negotiations of large scale and complexity (B2B), with organizations of various sizes and segments.
  • Full Management of P&L, Budget, expenses, costs, investments, Compliance, and Risk. Expertise and strong in management, implementation, and maintenance of Standards like ISO 9001, ISO 14001, IATF 16949, and VDA 6.3 as well as all customer requirements on the field of ESG – Environmental Social and Governance combined with WCM -World Class Manufacturing requirements from demanded customers worldwide.
  • Very good knowledge in Digitalization with several projects implemented into shop floor ( Manufacturing Operations ) as well as in R&D optimizing resources as time and money be more effective in many aspects of technology.
  • Experience in (M & A) mergers and acquisitions, start-up, business plan formatting, and development budgets and financial projects.
  • Quality Management System (IATF16949) / Production Management System (Lean/CI)
  • Strategic and Deployment
  • Balanced Score Card & KPI
  • NPI Management
  • Project Management
  • Process Optimize Management (VDA6.3/Lean process)
  • Lean/TPS Management (include administer / R&D / manufacture /logistical)
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Industry 4.0

Nationalität: BRAZILIAN
Wohnort: Sao Paulo
Position: CRO- Restructuring / COO / Plant Director / General Manager / Managing Director
Geburtsjahr: 1965
Sprachen: Portuguese as mother Tongue · English – fluent · Spanish – advanced · German – Basic

Bernd Leiss

Expert in Cost optimization, Automation, Logistics, Industrial Design, Plant planning, and Relocation of Production.
Marketing, Market research
Quality, Supplier selection, Supplier development

Effective solutions for manufacturing, production and logistics are essential to survive in tougher competition. But also the right choice of production location and marketing. The optimization of products and/or new product development is another component in order to survive on the market.

Highly efficient production with optimal use of resources and equipment. High availability with intelligent material flow and sophisticated storage technology. Integration of customers and suppliers into an intelligent control system of all production flow system

Base on special knowledges, such as Strategy and deploy management, KPI management, Lean management, Quality management, Project management, Time management, Leadership management, etc., combined his working experience and lesson learned, always led and supported many clients to achieve the target(s) successfully, include but not limited:

  • Optimize operational efficacy
  • Optimize supply chain management
  • Reduce waste and inefficient operation, resource  and material usage
  • Improve productivity and quality performance in plant
  • Improve ability of R&D for New product/project
  • Improve ability of management system and work team

Meanwhile, according development tendency of Industry 4.0/China 2025, he always studies that how to implement enterprise transformation efficiently. On the basis of expectations and reality, support them become more lean or more automation or more intelligence.

Automotive, Ceramics, Chemistry, Cosmetics, Construction, Construction material, Electronic part manufacturing, EV Battery, Food &Beverage, Home appliance, Logistics, Manufacturing, New energy, Packaging, Pharmacy, Plastics. Quality / Validation, Testing / Validation, Textile, Built up, Relocation, etc.

Steel structure; Factory and production hall; Automation; Conveyor – / Transfer systems; Material flow; Handling/Robotics; Testing Equipment; Packaging; Special machines; Warehouse Systems, (Fully automatic); Process development; Quality assurance; Supplier qualification, etc.

Automotive OEM, (Pressshop, Bodyshop, Paintshop, Assembly, Logistics)
Automotive Zulieferindustrie
Food and Beverage
Automatisierung / Foerdertechnik / Materialfluss / Handling / Robotiks
Pharma
Plastics
Warenhaus / Distributionscenter
Logistics
Etc.

Senior project engineer & Project assistant manager for workshop – ENLIGHT (Dongguan)

Project manager & SQE engineer & Line leader – MITAC (Suzhou)

Dep. Manger of Technical department & Inspection Center – CAM PLAS(Shanghai)

Manager of Project Dep. & Quality Dep. – MYLIGHTS Technology (Shanghai)

Senior manager & Senior consultant – IMIG (Shanghai)

Chief Consultant & VP – OLMC (Shanghai)
Partner – IMIG

Partner – GTEC

Product / Process / Production /
Quality-Validation / Costs / ROI

Product to mass production
batch series production
large series production
mass production

Equipment
Human resources

Marketing, Sales

Industries:
Automotive
Ceramics
Chemistry
Cosmetics
Construction material
Electronic part manufacturing
EV Battery
Food &Beverage
Home appliance
Logistics
Manufacturing
New energy
Packaging
Pharmacy
Plastics
Quality / Validation
Testing / Validation
Textile

Technology
AGV
Automation / Assembly
Conveyor
Drone
Filling / Dosing
Handling
Logistics, Warehouse and storages
Measurement equipment
Packaging
PLC
Robotics
Etc.

Management / Consulting
Reduce to the max

Product evaluation / optimization regarding production

Process evaluation / optimization
Production evaluation / optimization

Warehouse/Logistics evaluation /optimization

Organization evaluation / Optimization

Total concept:
Cost reduction, Quality improvement, Investment, Financing, ROI Expert in Logistics, Industrial Design, Automation, and Installation / Relocation in China/Asia

  • Dipl. Engineer Design
  • 1983-1987 Fachhochschule Rheinland Pfalz, Abteilung Koblenz
  • Business Manager (MBA) 1992-1993: Rheinische Akademie, Cologne                
  • No specific certificates
  • The general approach is based on common methods such as:
    6 Sigma,(DMAIC), Lean Management ,Theorie of Constraints (TOC), Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Benchmarking, Supply Chain….
  • Basically, the analysis of the product / services and the processes is the starting point for optimizing costs and improving performance and achieving quality goals
  • More than 30 years of experience develop, design of automation systems and and logistics systems.
  • Working as consutant and problem solver for many stock market registered companies, by example BMW, VW, Great Wall, etc.
  • During the years developing many solutions, which several of them had been patented.
  • Office software
  • Project software
  • AutoCAD, UG
  • Quality tools
1. Production / Cost optimization

Increase output while less costs and less resources and raise quality and  reducation of waste

a. Product portfolio analysis (products, dimensions, weights, etc.)
b. Throughput analysis
c. Space analysis
d. Material flow analysis
e. Incl. delivery and collection areas
f. Information flow analysis
g. Logistics solution: concept development based on 1-6
h. Detailed solution
i. Supplier selection
j. Installation
k. Implementation including commissioning and connection to the l. internal IT system
Integration of customers and suppliers into the logistics system

2. Improvement of existing processes,  cost reduction, waste reduction, inventory reduction
  1. Weak point analysis
  2. Technical and/or organizational solution
  3. Investment budget with ROI calculation
  4. Implementation
3. The development / innovation of processes for NEW products as key point for future developement
  1. Implementation from laboratory production to mass production, including quality and validation system and management,
  2. Including the development of new technology
4. Automation
5. Machinery and Equipment development
6. INNOVATION
7. Installation/Relocation
  • Higher Performance
  • Reduction of the error rate
  • Increase in quality standards
  • Higher awareness for management/innovation/learning
  • Competitiveness for new customer/new orders
  • Lean, target/cost-orient management system
  • Gain more return on investment
  • Improve customer relation
  • Increase sales

Broad experience in a wide range of industries, technologies and processes. Transfer of technologies and processes from other industries and combination to create the optimal technology/process for the respective project.
Extremely strong cost awareness.

  • Lean/TPS apply more areas (office management, R&D, production/shop flow, logistic, etc.)
  • Quality performance management (internal/external, 3rd-party)
  • Supply chain management
  • Excellent management for plant
  • Excellent management system
  • FOLLOW THE PRODUCT
  • Product investigation: What’s needed at the product to fulfill it’s function
  • ▶ Process, equipment, resource analysis
  • ▶ Added value /costs per process step
  • Performance management (BSC KPI)
  • Lean office/R&D/manufacture/logistic
  • Projekt-management
  • Quality Management
  • Six sigma
  • Time Study (work sampling, MTM, PTS, etc.)
  • Data Analysis
  • VDA series standard, such as VDA6.1, VDA6.3, VDA6.5, VDA MLA, VDA NTF, etc.
  • Intelligent Manufacturing/Industry 4.0


Sale up for Germany customer

0

%

Costs down / Quality up

0

%

  • Depending on the case.
  • Sale: Product / Market ▶ forecast possible
  • Costs down / Quality up: ▶ 40%

Hennecke: 3 Years

Supply shop floor system.

Cost reduction -50%, Flexible systems, modular, spare parts, standardization cost reduction after sales -73%

Monopoly Ceramic part production:: 2 Years

Fully automated warehouse system:

Efficiency +80%, Cost reduction -62%, Throughput +70%, Personnel reduction -75%, Customer satisfaction: +81 %

Greatwall transmission manufacturing 3 years

Buffer warehouse between part production and assemblyEfficency +80%, Cost reduction- 60%, Lead time -60%, Personnel reduction -70%, Downtime assembly: -80%, Quality control: +80%

Trouble shooting Bodyshop. Ensure SOP. Support of suppliers such as Thyssen, FFT, and others. Modification at all essential stations, like body, door sill, sunroof, door, etc. so that the systems could run at all.Tolerance chain calculation, quality methods, quality calculations, redesign of cells and equipment

Dongguan galvanization 2 Years

Automatic measurement and adjustment of the galvanization baths

Efficiency +70%, Cost reduction- 50%, Personnel reduction -70%, Downtime: -80%, Quality: +80%

Strong background in design, manufacturing, production technology and organization. This allows me to identify and eliminate weak points very quickly. Broad experience in various industries and able to transfer the technologies/processes to other industries.

Extremely strong cost awareness.

based on the known methods, such as

  • Quality Management System (IATF16949) / Production Management System (Lean/CI)
  • Strategic and Deployment
  • Project Management
  • Process Optimize Management (VDA6.3/Lean process)
  • Lean/TPS Management (include administer / R&D / manufacture /logistical)
  • Supply Chain Management
  • Industry 4.0

Nationalität: Deutsch
Wohnort: Shenyang, China
Position: Owner
Geburtsjahr: 1962
Sprachen: German, English, basics at French