Fred Kaminski

Senior Interim Manager – Restructuring, Quality Management, Process Optimization

I provide comprehensive consulting and management services in the areas of restructuring, quality management, process optimization, and software development for companies in the automotive, medical technology, aerospace, railway, and IT/telecommunications industries.

With extensive experience as an interim manager, principal assessor, and strategic consultant, I help businesses increase efficiency, ensure compliance, and successfully integrate innovative technologies.

I have 20 years of professional experience in the field of software development, including the use of various models, ASPICE, functional safety and, of course, cybersecurity.

I am the founder of the 4-C Method, which ensures the success in my mandates.

C= communication, C= cooperation, C= consequence, C= competence

Core Competencies:

  • Leadership and Operational Excellence
  • Efficient Methods to accelerate the Customer profit and reducing the cost.
  • Process Optimization & Lean Management (Kaizen, Kanban, Gemba Walks, 6S…)
  • Restructuring & Task Force Management for production and development processes
  • Product Development & Regulatory Approvals in highly regulated industries (medical technology, aerospace, automotive)
  • Interim Management & Crisis Management for companies in transformation phases
  • C-Level Management

Additional Services:

  • Cost Reduction & Profit Growth: By implementing tailored strategies for efficiency improvement and cost optimization, I help companies achieve sustainable profitability.
  • Technical Services & Training: I offer technical consulting and training to ensure that your team possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to tackle current challenges.

With my practical, analytical, and solution-oriented approach, I ensure that companies achieve their quality, efficiency, and compliance goals while positioning themselves for long-term success.

Senior Interim Manager – Restructuring, Quality Management, Process Optimization

With extensive experience across the automotive, medical technology, aerospace, railway, and IT/telecommunications industries, I have successfully led restructuring, process optimization, and quality improvement projects in multinational corporations. My expertise covers software development, manufacturing, cyber security, and compliance management.

Key Roles & Achievements:

Allweiler Group (Pump Manufacturer) – Senior Interim Director of Process Optimization

  • Increased on-time delivery (OTD) from 38% to 86% through Lean Kaizen workshops and process optimization.
  • Conducted internal and external audits, leading to a three-year extension of ISO 9001 certification.
  • Implemented a risk management framework (ISO 31000) to enhance operational security and compliance.

Getinge Group (Medical Devices) – Interim Head of Software Development

  • Led quality management and software development under Medical Device Regulation (MDR) and ISO 13485.
  • Ensured FDA Part 21 compliance and successfully secured market approvals for critical medical devices.
  • Conducted cyber security assessments, strengthening IT security and system resilience.

CARIAD (Automotive Software – Volkswagen Group) – Strategy Consultant for ASPICE & Cyber Security

  • Implemented ASPICE PAM 3.1, optimizing development processes for BorgWarner, Hella, and Hanon.
  • Conducted cyber security audits & ISO 20000/TISAX compliance assessments.
  • Developed a supplier integration model, improving security and transparency in development processes.

Alpitronic (EV Charging & Battery Systems) – Interim PMO

  • Integrated low-voltage and high-voltage charger production lines, reducing complexity and increasing efficiency.
  • Implemented risk management and structured project planning, accelerating product launch timelines.

Porsche AG – Task Force Lead for Supply Chain & Quality Improvement

  • Led structured product development & supplier management in compliance with Porsche’s PEP framework.
  • Conducted system & software assessments under ASPICE PAM 3.1, ensuring compliance and quality.
  • Established a Project Management Office (PMO), enhancing project execution and tracking.

Faurecia (Automotive Exhaust Systems) – Chief Operations Officer (COO)

  • Restructured production and logistics, transitioning from mass production to single-unit batch manufacturing.
  • Implemented Kanban and Lean methodologies, optimizing workflows and reducing production delays.

UTC Aerospace Systems – Interim Restructuring Manager

  • Led the restructuring of production and development environments, ensuring compliance with aviation regulations.
  • Established new IT strategies and digital transformation, improving manufacturing efficiency.

Collossus Consulting – Senior Consultant for ASPICE, Cyber Security & Process Optimization

  • Supported multiple automotive suppliers (VW, Audi, Daimler, Bosch, Continental, ZF, Schaeffler, Panasonic, Melco) in process optimization and ASPICE implementation.
  • Conducted ISO 27001 cyber security risk assessments and implemented Automotive SPICE methodologies.

Deutz AG- Global Head of Quality Management (CQO)

  • Defining a new global quality strategy
  • Improvement of a new process-oriented approach in all plants
  • Introduction of a new IMS for quality

Industry Expertise:

  • Automotive – Volkswagen, Porsche, Daimler, BorgWarner, Hella
  • Medical Devices – Getinge, MCP
  • Aerospace & Defense – UTC Aerospace, Bombardier Transportation
  • Manufacturing & Industrial Engineering – Alpitronic, Faurecia, Siemens
  • IT & Cyber Security – OMV Solutions, T-Systems

With a data-driven, structured, and solution-oriented approach, I deliver measurable improvements in efficiency, quality, and regulatory compliance.

My academic background and certifications form the foundation of my expertise in engineering, quality management, IT systems, and business process optimization. My education and continuous professional development have allowed me to integrate technical knowledge with management skills, making me highly effective in restructuring, process optimization, and compliance management.

Dipl.-Ing. Mechanical Engineering – Beuth University of Applied Sciences, Berlin

  • Specialized in technical design, industrial process engineering, and automation.
  • Gained expertise in manufacturing systems, quality assurance, and production optimization.
  • Developed strong analytical skills in problem-solving and process efficiency.

Dipl.-Wirtschaftsinformatiker (Diploma in Business Informatics) – Technical University of Berlin

  • Strong understanding of software development and IT infrastructure in industrial settings.
  • Focused on IT systems integration, process management, and ERP solutions.
  • Specialized in SAP-based business process optimization and digital transformation.

Academic Teaching & Research

Professor (Honorary) – HTW Berlin & Beuth University

  • Taught Quality Management, Risk Assessment, and Process Optimization.
  • Led research on industrial engineering, software development processes, and functional safety.
  • Supervised thesis projects in engineering, quality management, and IT security.

Education Impact on My Career

My academic and professional qualifications have shaped my career as a highly skilled consultant, interim manager, and quality expert. I combine technical expertise with strategic management skills to help companies enhance efficiency, achieve compliance, and implement cutting-edge technologies.

  • Office Software – MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook)
  • Project Management Software – SAP (IS-U, PM, QM), Jira, MS Project, IBM Rational ClearCase
  • Quality & Risk Analysis Tools – APIS IQ-RM, Medini Analyze, Plato SCIO, Minitab
  • Cyber Security & Compliance – SIEM Tools (Splunk, QRadar), ISO 27001, TISAX Frameworks
  • KI-Systems incl. ML Model development, Prompting and Adaption
  • Embedded Systems & Simulation – MATLAB, Simulink, dSPACE TargetLink, Vector CANoe
  • Programming & Scripting – Python, SQL, ABAP, C/C++
  • Digital Transformation & IoT – AWS IoT, Siemens MindSphere, Azure Cloud, TensorFlow
  • Process Optimization & Efficiency – Reduce lead times, improve production output, and streamline workflows.
  • Quality Management & Compliance – Ensure ISO 9001, IATF 16949, ASPICE, and ISO 26262 compliance.
  • Cyber Security & Risk Management – Identify vulnerabilities, implement ISO 27001 & TISAX frameworks, and enhance IT security.
  • Functional Safety & Regulatory Approvals – Achieve ISO 26262, IEC 61508, and FDA compliance for safety-critical systems.
  • Restructuring & Crisis Management – Lead turnaround strategies, optimize operations, and recover failing projects.
  • Digital Transformation & Industry 4.0 – Implement AI, IoT, cloud solutions, and automation for smart manufacturing.
  • Supplier Development & Global Sourcing – Qualify suppliers, improve supply chain resilience, and conduct supplier audits.
  • Cost Reduction & Profitability – Minimize operational costs, improve budget planning, and increase overall efficiency.

• Higher process efficiency – Streamlined operations and optimized workflows for better productivity.
• Higher compliance & quality standards – Implementation of ISO, ASPICE, and functional safety frameworks.
• Continual improvement culture – Integration of Lean, Six Sigma, and Kaizen methodologies.
• Increased competitiveness – Stronger positioning for new customers and business opportunities.
• Cost-efficient management systems – Lean, target-driven, and cost-oriented process optimization.
• Higher return on investment – Reduced operational costs and increased profitability through efficiency gains.

  • Hands-on expertise – Decades of experience in automotive, aerospace, medical, and IT industries with real-world implementation.
  • Holistic approach – Combining engineering, quality, cybersecurity, and business strategy for comprehensive solutions.
  • Certified leadership – Accredited ASPICE Principal Assessor, ISO 26262 Functional Safety Expert, and Six Sigma Black Belt.
  • Crisis & restructuring expert – Proven success in turning around struggling projects and optimizing operations.
  • Innovation & digital transformation – Implementing AI, IoT, Industry 4.0, and smart automation for future-proof businesses.
  • Global supplier network & industry connections – Extensive network across Europe, Asia, and North America for sourcing and benchmarking.
  • Regulatory & compliance mastery – Deep knowledge of ISO, FDA, ASPICE, and cybersecurity frameworks to ensure smooth audits.
  • Cost-focused & ROI-driven – Proven strategies for reducing costs, optimizing resources, and increasing profitability.
  • Strategic vision – Aligning business goals with technological advancements.
  • Structured execution – Systematic approach for problem-solving and process implementation.
  • Tailored solutions – Customized methods for each client’s industry and challenges.
  • Sustainable improvements – Long-term success, not just short-term fixes.
  • Proactive mindset – Anticipating risks and driving continuous improvement.

I don’t just consult—I deliver measurable results.

• Lean Management & Kaizen – Continuous process improvement, waste reduction, and efficiency optimization.
• Six Sigma Black Belt – Data-driven decision-making, statistical process control, and defect reduction.
• ASPICE & Functional Safety (ISO 26262, IEC 61508) – Implementation of safety-critical systems and compliance frameworks.
• Cybersecurity & Risk Management – ISO 27001, TISAX, and penetration testing for IT security.
• Process Auditing & Quality Management – ISO 9001, IATF 16949, and VDA 6.3 for supplier and internal audits.
• Project & Multi-Site Management – PMI/PMBOK methodologies for structured execution of global projects.
• Digital Transformation & Industry 4.0 – AI, IoT, smart manufacturing, and automation strategies.
• Change & Crisis Management – Task force leadership, restructuring, and turnaround strategies.
• Agile & Hybrid Development Models – Integration of Agile, Scrum, and traditional waterfall approaches.
• Supply Chain Optimization – Lean logistics, supplier assessments, and cost efficiency strategies.
Combining structured methodologies with real-world execution for maximum impact.

Process & Quality Optimization

  • Lean transformation – Full-scale implementation of Kaizen, Six Sigma, and Lean methodologies.
  • ASPICE maturity improvement – Achieve ASPICE Level 2-3 compliance for automotive software development.
  • ISO & regulatory certifications – Successfully implement ISO 9001, IATF 16949, ISO 26262, or TISAX frameworks.
  • Cybersecurity enhancement – Full deployment of ISO 27001-based security measures across IT infrastructure.

Cost Reduction & ROI Growth

  • 30-50% process cost reduction – Through automation, digital transformation, and AI-driven efficiency.
  • Significant OEE improvement – Increase Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) by 20-30% in production.
  • Optimized supplier network – Identify, qualify, and integrate high-performing suppliers globally.
  • Reduction of defect rates – Implementing FMEA, Six Sigma, and AI-based quality controls to lower defects by 30-50%.

Digitalization & Industry 4.0 Implementation

  • Smart manufacturing & AI integration – Implementation of predictive maintenance, real-time analytics, and IoT solutions.
  • Cloud transformation – Migrate critical business and manufacturing processes to cloud-based solutions.
  • Data-driven decision-making – Implement BI dashboards and AI-driven process optimization tools.

Restructuring & Business Turnaround

  • Full operational restructuring – Improve company-wide efficiency, eliminate waste, and optimize resources.
  • Task force leadership – Solve critical supply chain, production, or software delivery issues within 12-24 months.
  • Crisis management & turnaround strategies – Restore financial and operational stability through targeted interventions.

Achieving measurable efficiency, compliance, and profitability improvements within 1.5 – 3 years.

Automotive & Mobility

  • ASPICE Implementation & Cybersecurity Compliance – Led process optimization and ASPICE maturity upgrades for BorgWarner, Hella, Hanon, and VW suppliers.
  • Porsche AG – Task Force Leadership – Successfully implemented structured product development & supplier quality improvements under Porsche PEP framework.
  • Faurecia – COO & Operational Restructuring – Transformed manufacturing & supply chain operations, reducing costs and improving efficiency.
  • GKN Automotive – Functional Safety Compliance (ISO 26262) – Ensured ASIL D compliance for BMW steering systems.

Medical Technology & Healthcare

  • Getinge Group – Quality & Software Development – Implemented MDR (Medical Device Regulation), ISO 13485, and secured FDA approvals.
  • MCP Cardiohelp System – Cybersecurity & Battery Certification – Successfully led cybersecurity & risk assessment for a life-saving medical device.

Aerospace & Defense

  • UTC Aerospace Systems – Restructuring & Digitalization – Led full-scale transformation & process automation to align with aviation regulations.
  • Bombardier Transportation – Software Quality & Safety Standards – Implemented ISO 50126 & RAMS methodology for train control systems.

Industry & Digital Transformation

  • Alpitronic – EV Charging Infrastructure – Integrated high-voltage & low-voltage charger production, ensuring scalability & efficiency.
  • OMV Solutions – ITIL & ISO 27001 Implementation – Digital transformation & IT security compliance for global energy sector.
  • Collossus Consulting – Multi-Industry Consulting – Provided Cybersecurity, ASPICE, Functional Safety, and Lean implementation to various industries.

Delivering high-impact projects that improve quality, efficiency, compliance, and profitability.

Self-confidence, resilience, very good communication, team player, conflict management, goal-oriented, analytical, very decisive, assertive and responsible

Nationality: German
Residence:
Position: Senior Interim Manager – Restructuring, Quality Management, Process Optimization
Year of Birth: 1966
Languages: German (Native), English (C1 Level)

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

Nationality: German
Residence: Germany
Position: Interim Operations Manager
Year of Birth: 1963
Languages: German, English, Russian