Lutz Ziegler

„"Structured. Sustainable. Successful. Implementation – with experience!" 

A few words about the person...

Born two years after the Berlin Wall was built and raised in the free part of Berlin, I expanded my knowledge of business administration through an MBA in the USA after studying electrical engineering.

In particular, I was influenced by Japanese management and production philosophy during my early career years, which I learned from experienced mentors. The methodical approach with proven tools, the analytical and structured thinking, the employee-focused approach, and the constant striving for continuous improvement and lean processes have been fundamental parts of my thinking and actions for over 30 years.

As head of automotive production with over 1000 employees, I improve productivity and quality. With more than 20 years of experience as a manager in operational supply chain management and strategic purchasing for corporations and medium-sized businesses, I shape the supply chains of "external production".

Sustainable improvements in material costs, inventory levels, and supplier quality are the result, under my leadership, of developing and implementing cross-functional commodity group strategies. Achieving holistically optimal material supply from a Total Cost of Ownership perspective requires clear communication, tough negotiations, and a commitment to win-win solutions. My safety shoes accompany me on the necessary on-site visits worldwide, allowing me to identify potential areas for improvement and weaknesses myself.

My values

I stand for being able to analyze complex issues and to be transparent.
to present ideas for improvement and to use structured methods
To implement measures. I find the latter most effective through
the inclusion of the people affected.

For me, a holistic approach means…

…a clear view of the current situation and an unbiased assessment of the challenges and potential for improvement within the company. In addition to considering the markets and customers, relevant stakeholders are involved, from management and owners to department heads, employees, the works council, and, if necessary, external parties such as banks and government agencies. The goal is the comprehensive, cross-functional development of solutions and their consistent implementation.

Tailor-made solutions emerge when…

… the goals are clearly formulated, the circumstances within the company are taken into account, and the key stakeholders are heard and actively involved from the outset.

Proven methods and tools help in finding efficient solutions.

Starting with a suitable description of the current state – in as much detail as necessary and not as possible – through the development of concepts for the desired target situation and their feasibility assessment, PLUS the subsequent implementation.

An optimal result requires…

…professional execution of preparatory activities and the experienced development of implementable solutions with an action plan. Furthermore, it requires the consistent implementation of the defined measures. Even in an initially unfamiliar environment, experience in applying proven methods and tools is crucial for sustainable success. Even an "optimal" result will offer opportunities for improvement in the future if circumstances change.

Career

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Senior Network Partner CPLUSM Network

Part of the Senior Network Partner Circle at CPLUSM

from 2023
from 2022

Cooperation with C PLUS M Network

Network development, founders, managing directors

independent consultant

Interim Management & Consulting 4 Global

from 2015
1990 - 2019

Professional experience:

  • 6 years as a specialist in production engineering, consultant for lean manufacturing and assembly management at Volkswagen AG, Germany, Spain, USA, Mexico
  • 3 years as a consultant at Droege & Comp. Business Consulting
  • 5 years Head of Continuous Improvement Process, Production Logistics at FAG Kugelfischer
  • 10 years as authorized signatory at MAN Truck & Bus: Material management and head of the cab division, head of bus purchasing, purchasing processes and systems
  • 4 years Exec VP Purchasing Lenze Group

Electrical Engineering Studies and MBA (Business Administration)

Technical University of Berlin
University of IllinoisChicago
1981 - 1990