Torsten Althaus on a Temporary Basis – Efficient, Cooperative, and Results-Oriented
Why did Siegfried AG choose to collaborate with Kloepfel?
The decision to work with Kloepfel was made before my time at Siegfried, prior to my joining the company in February 2022. At that time, there was a discussion about whether to continue the project with Kloepfel. Ultimately, it was my decision to proceed with this collaboration. Kloepfel was able to absorb a high workload during the crucial initial phase of the project—one that we would have struggled to handle internally while managing our daily operations. This phase involved major procurement projects of an extraordinary scale, and Kloepfel played a crucial role in managing peak workloads and ensuring project progress. Additionally, an experienced consultant specializing in large-scale pharmaceutical investments was to be brought in to serve as a “counterbalance” to the general planner.
How many Kloepfel consultants were working with you?
Typically, two Kloepfel consultants were involved—Mr. Althaus and a colleague. We had agreed on a flexible budget in the form of a daily rate and were billed based on weekly and daily activities. This allowed us to maintain a clear overview of the remaining budget. However, the consultants were not always working full-time. In total, Kloepfel supported us for 2.5 years.
How was the collaboration with internal and external stakeholders?
The collaboration with Mr. Althaus and his colleague was excellent. Both were highly professional and quick to integrate into our team, actively driving projects forward. Ms. Müller worked in a very structured manner, ensuring clarity and direction through project plans and their continuous review. Mr. Althaus contributed a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere on an interpersonal level, which was particularly beneficial in challenging situations—such as negotiations with suppliers—leading to a solution-oriented dynamic. His open and approachable nature greatly benefited the project.
Communication with our internal stakeholders, including the local procurement team in Germany, the central procurement team in Switzerland, the technical leads in various departments, and our overall project manager, was excellent. Mr. Althaus ensured that all internal stakeholders were well informed through detailed, regular weekly reports. His high level of technical expertise allowed him to engage in discussions with the general planner on an equal footing.
How did the collaboration with Kloepfel work?
We held weekly fixed meetings within the Procurement Community, in which the Kloepfel consulting team was always involved. These regular alignments were essential for keeping everyone on the same page. Additionally, the Kloepfel consultants participated in various other fixed meetings and discussions. The Kloepfel team was seamlessly integrated, and after a short adjustment period, there was hardly any noticeable difference between external and internal participants—the collaboration was truly effortless.
What did the Kloepfel consultants achieve?
The expected savings were met. Since the procurement projects varied in nature, so did the savings potential, making a differentiated evaluation essential. Overall, the consultants achieved a strong savings performance that we were satisfied with.
An additional advantage was the opportunity to learn internally through the collaboration with Kloepfel. We had a phase of overlap during which new team members could learn from the experienced Kloepfel consultants. We greatly appreciated this knowledge transfer and professional approach.
Were there any key learnings for the procurement team?
One valuable learning for our team was the importance of persistent and proactive communication with suppliers. Instead of relying solely on email communication, colleagues learned to approach suppliers directly—with a clear objective and the understanding that targeted conversations often yield better results. It became evident that making proactive calls, immediately resolving misunderstandings, and identifying cost-saving opportunities together with suppliers can be highly effective.
This direct, personal approach also gave internal colleagues more confidence. They realized that a friendly, open conversation is often more effective than purely written communication and that it helps avoid misunderstandings or delays. This experience encouraged many to take the initiative and make direct calls whenever uncertainties arose—ultimately benefiting both sides through clear and efficient communication. The self-reflection and positive example set by Kloepfel have helped us improve our daily operations.
Were the project goals achieved?
Yes, the expectations we had regarding the payback from the consulting engagement were met. We received exactly what we had hoped for from the collaboration.
What were the benefits for Siegfried AG?
The Kloepfel team took on the role of temporary colleagues and coaches. With clear rules of engagement and mutual understanding, we collaborated effectively in a unique situation shaped by personnel shortages and procurement challenges. Kloepfel guided us competently through this phase, and we would readily involve them again for such exceptional situations. Now that we have strengthened our internal team, our focus is on managing tasks independently moving forward. Looking back, I can wholeheartedly recommend working with Kloepfel.
Image Copyright: Siegfried AG
Interview Partner:
Dr. Holger Bühler, Chief Procurement Officer, Siegfried AG
Key Facts About Siegfried AG
Siegfried AG operates as a contract manufacturer and developer for numerous well-known companies in the pharmaceutical industry.
- Revenue: Over 1.2 billion CHF
- Global Locations: 13
- Production of: Pharmaceutical active ingredients and finished dosage forms
- Publicly listed: Since 1973
- Headquarters: Zofingen, Switzerland
Main Image of this Article: Siegfried Headquarters Copyright: Siegfried AG
Website: www.siegfried.ch