Case 5

The task/mission

Mandate as interim manager from October 2024 to July 2025. The company's profitability and future viability must be ensured.

 

The company

An internationally active German mechanical engineering company specializing in mechanical products. The company employs 300 people and produces at a site in southern Germany. The company was acquired by a large corporation a few years ago and is now set to be fully integrated.

 

The situation

Structures have evolved over the years, and process management is not yet established. SAP S/4HANA must be implemented quickly. Sales forecasts have declined significantly in the short term. A significant reduction in personnel costs is necessary. The main customer (40%) complains about unreliability (delivery reliability and quality). The managing director is seriously ill and is unavailable. A new managing director will be appointed in a few months.

 

 

The requirements and expectations

The short-term implementation of the new ERP system has resulted in a deterioration in order processing efficiency. The initial expectation is to restore this efficiency. At the same time, a leaner organization with reduced personnel costs must be developed for the budgeting process. The new organization must then prove itself and be further optimized. Approximately 10% of employees will have to be laid off initially.

 

 

My task

Rapidly take over the largest division, Operations. From this position, synchronize the other divisions in the interest of the group until the new CEO is able to act. Begin restructuring by streamlining the organization. Once operational capacity is achieved, a process of excellence must begin.

 

 

The solution

A new, lean, and effective organization has been established. SAP S/4HANA has been fully integrated as standard. Management positions have been filled. Effective continuous improvement processes incorporate employee suggestions.

 

 

The sustainable corporate benefit

A lean, dynamic, and cost-effective organization has been created. SAP S/4HANA is running as standard, and the organizational processes have been structured accordingly. The primary customer has regained trust and is now planning follow-up projects. Employee evaluations demonstrate significant progress in leadership.