Holger Barth

Director R&D | Complex Product Development | Project Delivery | Bridging Practice & Theory in Project Management | Lecturer

Rottweil, Baden-Württemberg, Germany

About

With over 25 years of extensive technological expertise, I have successfully led R&D and innovation initiatives across diverse industries, driving multidisciplinary projects from concept to market. My leadership in product development is reinforced by a deep understanding of both operational efficiency and complex technical processes, making me a versatile leader in fast-moving environments. I am an IPMA® Level A Certified Project Director with expertise in managing complex projects for SMEs and in partnership with global industry leaders. As a lecturer at HFU Business School, I apply my advanced expertise in project management, emphasizing modern approaches like complexity management and success strategies, particularly tailored to dynamic environments and the unique challenges faced by SMEs. Core Competencies: Leading and managing complex, high-impact projects in SMEs and large enterprizes. Organisational transformation and process improvement. Extensive technological expertise in innovation and product development from ideation to volume production in different industries. Cross-functional team leadership. Stakeholder management. Global procurement strategy.

Experience

  • BDT Media Automation GmbH (9 yrs 8 mos)
    • Director of R&D - New Product Development
      Jun 2018 - Present · 8 yrs 1 mo

      Leading the multidisciplinary R&D organisation and project portfolio to drive innovative product solutions and process improvements. Managing complex projects across a diverse technological portfolio, driving the strategic development of cutting-edge products and improving organizational performance. Key Achievements: Delivered high-tech product launches with a strong emphasis on innovation and rapid time-to-market. Significantly improved productivity and organisational effectiveness through re-structuring and process optimization. Managed high-complexity projects, applying advanced project management techniques to ensure success in dynamic environments.

    • Director Strategic Procurement
      Nov 2016 - May 2018 · 1 yr 7 mos

      Developed and led global procurement strategies, optimizing supplier networks and achieving substantial cost reductions through efficient global sourcing, particularly with suppliers and contract manufacturers in China and other LCCs.

  • University Lecturer at HFU Business School
    Oct 2023 - Present · 2 yrs 9 mos

    Project Management Leveraging my industry experience and academic insights, I equip students with the essential skills to excel in complex project environments. The focus is on a modern approach to project management, emphasizing adaptability, complexity management, and practical strategies for success.

  • Head of R&D at Mesa Parts GmbH
    Nov 2013 - Oct 2016 · 3 yrs

    Built a new R&D organisation for automotive and industrial applications and led the development of innovative technologies, including hydrogen and natural gas systems. Delivered key OEM projects for clients such as MAN Diesel & Turbo and Volkswagen.

  • BDT Media Automation GmbH (6 yrs 10 mos)
    • Senior Project Manager R&D
      May 2009 - Oct 2013 · 4 yrs 6 mos

      Led multidisciplinary teams in the successful execution of complex and major R&D projects in the digital printing industry. Achieved market-leading product rollouts for clients such as HP Indigo and Vistaprint, utilizing advanced project management strategies to meet tight deadlines. Implemented radical innovation and developed high-performance teams.

    • Manager R&D China | Project Manager
      Jan 2007 - Apr 2009 · 2 yrs 4 mos

      Led the establishment and management of a cross-functional team in China, overseeing multiple projects simultaneously. Managed the successful production transfer and New Product Introduction (NPI) projects until process release. Delivered significant annual cost savings by leading cost-reduction initiatives and implementing design changes in high-volume OEM products, including full validation processes.

  • Project Manager in PR China at BDT Automation Technology Ltd., Zhuhai/Guangdong, China
    May 2006 - Dec 2006 · 8 mos

    Led teams and technology projects during the setup of a new manufacturing facility in China. Successfully managed several New Product Introduction (NPI) projects through to process release, while introducing and implementing key sustaining processes to ensure long-term operational stability and efficiency. Demonstrated a strong track record in coordinating cross-functional teams and ensuring smooth project execution in a fast-paced environment.