Karsten Pawlofsky, Manager at Kloepfel Consulting, on his role as a true maker within the team
At the Kloepfel Group, we are the place for makers. THE MAKER’S PLACE stands for pragmatic procurement consulting and results-oriented solutions – developed by makers, for makers.
Karsten Pawlofsky, Procurement Manager and Seminar Leader at Kloepfel Consulting, is responsible for Kloepfel-Training. Together with his team, he organizes customized training sessions that help companies optimize their procurement strategies and support the targeted development of their employees. His focus lies in hands-on negotiation training, on-the-job coaching, and potential analyses. In this interview, he shares his “I’ll do it” story, the spirit at Kloepfel, and why training and development are more important than ever for business success.
The Art of Doing – or: The Power of THE MAKER’S PLACE
1. What’s your “I’ll do it” story?
My team and I offer tailor-made training programs that are specifically aligned with the needs of our clients. We meet them where they currently stand and deliver more than just theory – we share practical insights based on experience from over 1,000 projects. What makes it special? Our training directly leads to measurable added value! Participants learn how to apply what they’ve learned immediately in their daily work – efficiently, practically, and with purpose. To put it simply: We make knowledge applicable and ensure it pays off.
Challenges – Relevant Megatrends
2. The economy is facing major challenges. Why is now the right time to work with you?
Companies today are dealing with highly dynamic markets, rising costs, and a significant shortage of skilled labor. This is where Kloepfel-Training steps in: We support companies in optimizing their procurement and negotiation strategies, reducing costs, and strategically developing their teams. Now more than ever, it’s crucial to structure knowledge transfer to ensure long-term team success. Our seminars are not just about knowledge – they are real levers for efficiency and business impact.
3. Which global megatrends most influence your field – such as digitalization, labor shortages, geopolitical crises, or sustainability?
Demographic change, digitalization, and automation are the biggest challenges companies face today and in the future. With the shortage of skilled professionals, it’s increasingly difficult to find qualified staff. That’s why developing existing teams has become so essential. Companies can no longer wait for perfectly trained buyers to appear – they must invest in developing their own people. That’s where we come in: With our customized training, we help build expertise and foster talent to ensure long-term competitiveness.
My Career as a Maker
4. Can you share a project that particularly shows how Kloepfel solves customer problems?
Our training sessions are not just theoretical—they pay off. Especially our negotiation training often turns into real-world negotiation projects. We don’t stop at training; we also support clients directly in their negotiations, analyze potential, and develop strategies together. Whether it’s on-the-job coaching or intensive negotiation workshops – we not only deliver knowledge, we implement it side by side with our clients. This creates measurable savings, long-term success, and real competitive advantages. That’s what makes our work so impactful.
5. What advice would you give to a graduate looking to start a career in consulting?
The great thing about consulting is the diversity. You gain insights into a wide range of industries and challenges. Every day brings something new. My advice for beginners: Be flexible and passionate! You have to adapt quickly and tackle complex topics with enthusiasm.
6. What does your typical workday look like?
No day is like the other – and that’s what makes it so exciting! My daily routine is a colorful mix of client meetings, supplier talks, and training sessions. Sometimes I’m standing in front of a team delivering practical knowledge; other times I’m supporting negotiations or developing new training concepts. Add tight deadlines to the mix – good organization and clear goals are key. In the end, it’s all about results. When we create real value together with our clients, that’s when I know: It was worth it!
The Person Behind the Maker
7. What was your latest personal highlight at Kloepfel?
What always stands out to me are the personal interactions – whether within the team or with clients. Working with such a wide variety of people and combining professional expertise with personal exchange is incredibly enriching. One highlight was an intensive negotiation training where participants achieved noticeable success using our methods. These moments prove the value of practical training. When clients leave a seminar excited about their improved negotiation results, that validates our work and motivates me every single day.
8. What do you appreciate most about your team?
What makes our team special is the shared spirit – not just planning things, but actually making them happen. Everyone contributes their strengths, and together we aim to deliver real results for our clients. The energy and focus on a common goal help us work efficiently – and with enthusiasm. This combination of professionalism and genuine “maker spirit” makes our collaboration unique and is a big part of what defines Kloepfel.
9. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?
Something I’ve learned through working with people, which I’ve come to see as valuable advice: Always value people and stay human. No matter who you’re dealing with, respect, openness, and honesty are essential. Especially in consulting, we work with diverse personalities. Everyone brings their own perspective, and when you meet people with appreciation, you create the best solutions and build trust-based relationships.
10. What are three things (or apps) you couldn’t live without?
Humor. Yes, humor is my personal app. Without a sense of fun, work gets tough – especially in stressful situations. Then of course, Outlook. I couldn’t manage my daily tasks without it.
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Contact:
Kloepfel Group
Damir Berberovic
Phone: +49 211 941 984 33 | Email: rendite@kloepfel-consulting.com