Ralph Schmidt

Background

About Ralph Schmidt

Senior Executive | Automotive Industry | QHSE & Sustainability Leader With 25+ years of global experience in the automotive sector, I specialize in leading Quality, Health, Safety, Environment (QHSE), and Sustainability functions. I’m known for driving transformation, embedding sustainability into operations, and ensuring compliance with standards like IATF 16949, ISO 14001, and TISAX. Current Role: SVP QHSE & Sustainability – Freudenberg Sealing Technologies I lead global initiatives that align Operational Excellence with ESG priorities. My focus: reducing warranty costs, strengthening customer trust, and delivering measurable environmental improvements across a diverse manufacturing footprint. Previous Roles: As VP Corporate Quality & Warranty Management Europe/Asia, I managed international teams and supplier networks, harmonized quality systems, implemented lean practices, and ensured flawless OEM program launches—boosting revenue and customer satisfaction. Career Highlights: • Led enterprise-wide risk and HSE frameworks • Embedded zero-defect culture across global sites • Delivered scalable, sustainable improvements in quality and compliance Core Expertise: • Global Quality Leadership | Automotive Manufacturing | IATF 16949, VDA, AIAG, TISAX • Sustainability & ESG Integration | Risk & Crisis Management | Compliance • Lean Manufacturing | Continuous Improvement | Kaizen | Value Stream Mapping • Cross-Regional Leadership | Change Management | Strategy Development I’m passionate about integrating sustainability, digitalization, and operational excellence into the future of mobility.