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Expertiseandexperience
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Frank Stephan Weigelt

Frank Stephan Weigelt

Technical Director
Changchun

Summary

Experienced Technical Director, Consultant, and Project Leader specializing in Total Productive Maintenance (TPM) and Total Quality Management (TQM). Demonstrated success in implementing quality and maintenance strategies to enhance productivity, minimize downtime, and boost operational efficiency. Proficient in lean management, Six Sigma methodologies, and technical training, prioritizing sustainable improvements and fostering workforce engagement.

Overview

2025
2025
years of professional experience
12
12
years of post-secondary education
6
6
Certifications
3
3
Languages

Work History

Technical Director/Senior Consultant, Advisory Services

Innoloft Changchun Incubate Co., Ltd.
5 2020 - Current
  • In General: Support companies in the automotive and mechanical engineering business in all areas of production and quality to Introduce TPM strategies to minimize machine downtimes and increase OEE
  • Evaluated emerging technologies for potential integration into existing systems or future projects.
  • Application of online training lectures on Industry 4.0, Project Management, KPI, 5S,Lean with integration of AI (AIaaS)
  • Processes Technical training and support in all areas of digitization, automation, innovation capacities, and development potential in MES and ERP
  • Supporting Chinese SMEs in putting International Standards into practice
  • Establish connections between companies and cooperate in projects to support start-ups with our Platform Innoloft Aachen
  • 01/2022- 07/2023 Support ZF Shenyang Plant 1 as an GM(Interim)/ Senior Consultant to prepare Leadership for the new Plant HEAT1/ EV with BMW
  • Introduced TPM strategies to minimize machine downtimes, resulting in a reduction in downtime by 22% and increase the OEE during launch phase to 65%
  • implement strategies for predictive maintenance with the german team as a global tool, include specific TPM and TQM tools or methods, such as OEE (Overall Equipment Effectiveness), 5S, Kaizen, and FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis). that led to a 92% increase in error-free production include training


CTO

Changchun Hexin Machinery Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
05.2017 - 04.2020


  • Spearheaded TPM and quality standards implementation, resulting in a 68% improvement in supply chain efficiency.
  • Training and lectures for automation and Industry 4.0 students built up our engineering talents
  • Certification as a Teacher in our Universities and technical colleges
  • Planning the JV with GRG -Global-Retool-Group- Germany
  • Leadership TPM and TQM for aprox 500 employees
  • Technology implementation and improvement (AI,MES,ERP)
  • Internal quality audits and development according to VDA 6.3 and IATF 16949, using quality process tools FMEA, PPAP, APQP, 8D reports
  • Industry 4.0, lean management, process and project management
  • Support with experience in all Departments like intelligent manufacturing, automatic parking, sales, and HR with TPM and QA-QS
  • Supplier quality management (SQM) include first supplier visits(FSV), supplier development and follow-up organization, and support, especially for welding quality ISO standard processes
  • Organization with purchasing and quality team for Supplier Audits, Supplier Development, 5S and 6S implementation
  • Safety inspection at welding for operation and production areas, Safety Training
  • Internal Management training and KPI implementation

Assembly and Installation Manager / Plant Manager

Kuka Flexible Manufacturing Systems Shanghai
04.2008 - 07.2011

Professional Experience Highlights:

  • TPM/TQM Systems Implementation: Successfully developed and implemented a follow-up system to strengthen Supplier Quality Management (SQM) processes, leading to a 15% improvement in overall product quality.
  • Shop Floor & Warehouse Optimization: Enhanced shop floor management for streamlined project supply chain handling, significantly improving operational efficiency. Achieved a 5% per-project cost reduction through standardized practices in warehouse management.
  • Project Leadership at BBDC Beijing: Drove four follow-up projects tied to Top Kuka Performance, contributing to an increase in order volume and client retention.
  • FAW-VW Audi T99 Project (Changchun):Reinstated the project schedule after a four-week delay through close coordination with Audi and FAW-VW planning teams, in collaboration with Kuka Augsburg.
    Directed site, assembly, personnel, and orientation planning to maintain project timelines and standards.
  • Training & Development Oversight:Led staff education programs for 83 employees, focusing on machining tools, hand tools, professional conduct, and construction site timing to ensure high performance and productivity on construction sites and workshops.
    Oversaw comprehensive training and financial planning for diverse automotive assembly processes, including fixture and geo-framing operations.
  • Production & Resource Planning: Managed production volumes and SQM in workshop operations, with an emphasis on resource allocation and efficient supply chain planning. Executed planning for piping, water, air pressure, and welding power systems for the development of a second workshop in Shanghai (17,000 sqm) to meet Ford Australia’s project needs. Delivered pre-assembly and shipment operations on time and within budget to the Thailand site.
  • Supplier Support and R&D Coordination: Provided technical support across R&D, manufacturing, and assembly for multiple projects, strengthening supplier partnerships and process reliability.
  • Quality Control Expertise: Directed quality control processes in welding and manufacturing, with hands-on management in Shanghai and Changchun facilities to ensure adherence to stringent quality standards.
  • Key Manager for Audi T99 Project (Changchun FAW-VW): Responsible for managing sub-suppliers, tools & dies, and quality assurance volumes. Acted as the primary liaison with the VSC for Quality and Audi Planning Department to ensure timely and accurate project execution.

Site Manager/ Personal Administrator/ Project Management

IDH Industrie Dienstleistungen Habel
08.2003 - 03.2008
  • Responsible for Kuka Projects, a new installation at FAW-VW- Model- X New-Bora Project and Audi A6/C6 Changchun, PR-China
  • For BIW assembly Lines 1+2, closures, and finish Line implementing TPM methods to reduces downtime
  • Responsible for CRM with FAW-VW/ adjustment and quality work after the measurement reports/ SQM-Supplier quality management/ responsible for 45 employees
  • TPM Training for Operators at FAW-VW and Audi

Personal Administrator and Staff disposition

Personalleasing I.K. Hofmann GmbH
11.2001 - 07.2003
  • Takeover BU with minus 25% to a successful case with 85%OEE using TQM methodes
  • implementing/Development of TPM and TQM of specialist welding BU automotive technology
  • Hofmann GmbH, Staff leasing Nuremberg and Dresden Branch/ leading 225 employees
  • Leading the BU for OEM like AMD, VW, BMW, Infineon, DREWAG, and Employee Education Training

Head of Agency

Deutsche Vermögensberatung AG Karlsruhe (DVAG)
10.1999 - 10.2001
  • Conducted confidential training and expert consultations for private and corporate clients, focusing on precise financial advisement to maximize customer satisfaction and outcomes.

Assembly Fitter/ Welding Supervisor/ On-site manager

Kombinat Dampferzeugerbau Berlin_1990 Babcock Oberhausen
09.1981 - 09.1999
  • Assembly for all Modules at the High Power Engine Plants from 40 MW to 1200 MW
  • Build and weld heavy steel Structure at 150 m high, mechanical engineering
  • Welder with new technologies- with eight special welding Certificates at the high-pressure level
  • Unique welder at the mirror for materials in the W02 and W11, Welder classes EN 287-1, and welding Procedure tests 111 and 141 also include the combination/ welding of unique materials like C22 for acid-resistant equipment and structures
  • Qualification to Safety officer for construction sites for the North German Metal BG


Supplier Quality Manager

Audi China Enterprise Beijing/ ATC Audi Tooling China
8 2011 - 2 2017

Core Competencies

  • Build a new department in Audi Beijing (ATC) with the target and responsibility of localization on the Chinese market to implement a new financial structure and save project costs
  • TPM & TQM Implementation: Preventive and predictive maintenance, quality control, downtime reduction, and OEE improvement
  • Supply Chain Quality Management (SQM): Supplier evaluation, audits, and improvement aligned with IATF 16949 standards
  • AI & Industry 4.0 Integration: Real-time monitoring, HMI systems, network structures for predictive analytics
  • Leadership & Training: Development of training modules on TPM/TQM, Industry 4.0, and safety protocols
  • Project & Operations Management: Assembly supervision, technical purchasing, shop floor management, and cross-functional team collaboration
  • localization of suppliers and production for projects: up to 10 weeks of time-saving SCM process
  • Implementing 3D measurement technology: up to 4 weeks of time-saving in the BIW quality work, and reduced costs for businesses traveling from Germany
  • Develop measurement programs - based on CAD data
  • Qualification and training for CMM measuring systems such as Faro Flexible Arm System and Polyworks software with Sigma 3D for 15 team members of our Chinese quality team
  • Responsible for measurement and part, ZSB, and subassembly quality for new projects FAW-VW in Changchun and Foshan plants

Education

Vocational Education - Welding Technician(Engineering)

VEB Dampfkesselbau Meerane/Dampferzeugerbau Berlin
Berlin, Germany
04.1979 - 01.1981

Ten classes Polytechnic High School - undefined

Pestalozzi High School Meerane/Sa.
01.1969 - 01.1979

Skills

Staff Training

Expertiseandexperience

  • Customer support (CRM)
  • Supplier quality management (SQM)
  • Network structure
  • Presentations/suggestions
  • MS Office
  • Management positions
  • Project management
  • Technical purchasing team support
  • Production and assembly supervision
  • Shop floor management
  • Design team support
  • Supervision and development Welding quality
  • Educational professional and safety training
  • 6S
  • TPS
  • IATF 16949 standards integration and monitoring
  • Experience in all process areas of automotive and automated body (BIW) manufacturing (VW, Audi, BMW, Daimler standards)
  • Cultural understanding
  • Internal review
  • Ability to develop control systems designed for smooth and efficient operation
  • Development of training lecture units Industry 4.0 HMI / Manufacturing / Management / Motivation/ AI integration/ Innovation focus

Address

 Ying Yue Kai Fa Qu, Livon, Changchun, Jilin Province, China

Civilstate

married

Workpermit

China, 01/27/XX/ Green Card China

Personal Information

  • Place of Birth: Meerane, Saxony, Germany
  • Date of Birth: 05/22/63
  • Nationality: German

Licenses

  • Driver License, C1
  • Driver License, China, C1

Awards

  • 2018, Changchun Government Friendship Award
  • 2019, Certification as a teacher for educational colleges
  • 2021, Jilin Peoples Government Changbai Mountain Friendship Award

Training

  • 1985, Qualification as Special-welder - Teamleader
  • 1999, Qualification and education for Financial Service as Head of Agency and later Agency Manager
  • 2001, Qualification and Education for Personal Administrator at a Stuff Leasing Company
  • 2004, Adjustment/alignment after using Measurement reports to set up welding fixtures and Lines/ Frames and GEO Stations as Laser Lines
  • 2014, Qualification and Education for High Measurement Digital Photogrammetric Systems GOM Atos/ Tritop

Certification

Certified Financial Advisor

AI/Reading/Chess

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is indeed reshaping the global economy, and the manufacturing industry is one of the sectors most affected. AI offers significant opportunities for productivity, efficiency, and innovation in manufacturing, but it also brings substantial challenges. Here is an analysis of the most critical opportunities and challenges AI presents in this sector:

Opportunities:

1. Enhanced Efficiency and Productivity:

AI-driven automation can streamline manufacturing processes, reducing downtime and enhancing throughput. Predictive maintenance, for example, enables machinery to anticipate and address potential breakdowns before they occur, minimizing interruptions and maximizing operational efficiency.

2. Precision and Quality Control:

AI-powered computer vision systems are increasingly being used in quality assurance, identifying defects with higher accuracy than human inspectors. This improves product quality and consistency while also reducing waste and rework, which translates into cost savings and better customer satisfaction.

3. Customization and Flexibility:

AI allows manufacturers to offer mass customization, creating products tailored to specific customer needs without the traditional costs of custom production. This can be achieved through flexible manufacturing systems powered by AI, enabling rapid changeovers and adjustments on production lines.

4. Supply Chain Optimization:

AI optimizes inventory levels, demand forecasting, and logistics, making supply chains more resilient and responsive to real-time data. This is crucial in today’s globalized manufacturing environment, where disruptions like pandemics or geopolitical tensions can severely impact supply chains.

5. Workforce Augmentation:

In manufacturing, AI doesn’t just replace human labor but also augments it. By handling repetitive, dangerous, or precision-focused tasks, AI allows workers to focus on higher-value activities, improving workplace safety and job satisfaction. Collaborative robots (cobots), for example, can work alongside human operators to enhance productivity and efficiency on the shop floor.

6. Accelerated Research and Development (R&D):

With AI-powered simulations, manufacturers can design and test products virtually, reducing the time and costs associated with physical prototypes. This accelerates the R&D process, helping companies innovate faster and bring new products to market more quickly.

Work Preference

Work Type

Full TimeContract Work

Work Location

On-SiteHybrid

Important To Me

Company CultureTeam Building / Company RetreatsPersonal development programs

Quote

Far and away the best prize that life offers is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.
Theodore Roosevelt

Accomplishments

  • Supervised team of 50 staff members.
  • Achieved Management Training 100% through effectively helping with Meeting skills, Presentation skills, PMP.
  • Collaborated with team of 12 in the development of ZF EV -BMW HEAT1 Project.

Software

MS Office 365/SAP/Atos/Tritop

Work Availability

monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Languages

German
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
English
Bilingual or Proficient (C2)
Chinese (Mandarin)
Intermediate (B1)

Interests

NEW Technologies, IT, AI, ChatGPT, Read Books, Serve others

Timeline

PMP-Basic Training refresh

01-2021

PMP Agile software Programming

01-2021

PMP-Initiating and setup

01-2021

PMP-Planning and structuring

01-2021

CTO

Changchun Hexin Machinery Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
05.2017 - 04.2020

GOM Inspect /Atos/Tritop -2014-06-30 till 2014-07-03

07-2014

Assembly and Installation Manager / Plant Manager

Kuka Flexible Manufacturing Systems Shanghai
04.2008 - 07.2011

Site Manager/ Personal Administrator/ Project Management

IDH Industrie Dienstleistungen Habel
08.2003 - 03.2008

Personal Administrator and Staff disposition

Personalleasing I.K. Hofmann GmbH
11.2001 - 07.2003

Certified Financial Advisor

04-2001

Head of Agency

Deutsche Vermögensberatung AG Karlsruhe (DVAG)
10.1999 - 10.2001

Assembly Fitter/ Welding Supervisor/ On-site manager

Kombinat Dampferzeugerbau Berlin_1990 Babcock Oberhausen
09.1981 - 09.1999

Vocational Education - Welding Technician(Engineering)

VEB Dampfkesselbau Meerane/Dampferzeugerbau Berlin
04.1979 - 01.1981

Technical Director/Senior Consultant, Advisory Services

Innoloft Changchun Incubate Co., Ltd.
5 2020 - Current

Supplier Quality Manager

Audi China Enterprise Beijing/ ATC Audi Tooling China
8 2011 - 2 2017

Ten classes Polytechnic High School - undefined

Pestalozzi High School Meerane/Sa.
01.1969 - 01.1979
Frank Stephan WeigeltTechnical Director