Shaping growth together
Bauerfeind is growing and that means: lots of action for the Production Teams in Zeulenroda and Gera. In the thick of it: Martin Gerhold (lymphology), Production Managers Mihail Buzatu (compression stockings) and Alexander Kuhn (supports). Three questions to a familiar and two new faces in this position.
What milestone has recently pleased you the most?
Mihail Buzatu: That’s hard to say because our teams successfully accomplish so many tasks with great passion and professionalism. Over the past few months, we restructured four Phlebology Teams, acquired new equipment, optimized production processes, and created space for further growth. And I can totally rely on my colleagues in all of this. I’m really pleased with that.
Martin Gerhold: My latest milestone is, of course, that I’ve been able to commit to a new position here since June as the Lymphology Production Manager. With regard to my private life: I got married 18 months ago and completed building my house.
Alexander Kuhn: I’m pleased with my first major project that we completed in March. It took over a year. We restructured the Supports Production Division, meaning almost half of Hall 2 – whilst sticking to the budget and the planned schedule. I was so happy with that!
What’s the key challenge for your teams in the second half of 2022?
Mihail Buzatu: We’re currently automating our dyeing processes. Two automatic dosing systems are being installed. They’re designed to communicate in real time with three servers and 17 dyeing system controls, and to combine chemicals and dyes. This automation will enable us to master the increasing demand more effectively. We’ve already accomplished 56% of all project tasks – but there’s still a lot to do until the end of the year.
Martin Gerhold: Quality is our top priority. Plus: attracting new employees, training them, and continuing to improve productivity in the teams. And I have to familiarize myself with new technologies and products first, of course. After all, I used to focus on manufacturing car parts – so a lot of things are new to me when it comes to lymphological products.
Alexander Kuhn: My biggest challenge will be to coordinate eight teams in such a way that we can cope with the high demand for our products. Specifically, that means: increasing equipment capacity in the existing production space. We’ve already ordered new equipment. And, of course, attracting new colleagues who need to be trained and integrated into the teams.
What makes you laugh most, and what makes you angry?
Mihail Buzatu: Umm... I laugh practically all the time, I’m a very positive person. Definitely, when I get back home and I’m welcomed by my two girls [Comment: daughters aged 1 and 5]. Then I’m on Cloud 9. In general, I respond to tense situations calmly and with humor. When my laptop takes too long to get going and it takes forever to retrieve the figures, I use the time to get a cup of coffee. [laughs]
Martin Gerhold: A certain kind of dry humor makes me laugh. Sometimes, that’s unexpected phrases my son comes up with. And since I’m quite impatient, I get annoyed when processes are delayed or issues are waited out.
Alexander Kuhn: The time with my girlfriend and our dog makes me happy. We’re out and about a lot in the Plauen area, we cycle along the Elster cycle trail quite a bit, and enjoy hiking. And what annoys me... I have quite a balanced demeanor. If anything, I get annoyed by minor discourtesies. Saying hello, please, and thank you is just a matter of course for me.
