RALF LEITER, PH.D.

Delivers comprehensive lectures on braking systems to university students, imparting practical and theoretical knowledge derived from over 30 years of automotive industry experience.

Managed strategic software projects as a Tier 1 consultant, ensuring alignment with client objectives and industry best practices.

Provided expert guidance on software development lifecycles and program execution for critical automotive systems.

Directed comprehensive software systems engineering initiatives, encompassing requirements engineering, system architecture, and acceptance testing for advanced HUD, Laser, and Display systems.

Implemented robust functional safety and cybersecurity protocols, ensuring compliance with automotive industry standards and enhancing system integrity.

Developed and managed comprehensive documentation for software systems, streamlining development processes and ensuring regulatory adherence.

Oversaw the strategic implementation of functional safety standards and cybersecurity measures across critical automotive systems.

Led initiatives to identify and mitigate risks related to functional safety and cyber threats, safeguarding product integrity and compliance.

Contributed engineering expertise to the development of a diagnostic system for Train Management Systems at MTU Friedrichshafen.

Leveraged software and display system knowledge to support critical engineering service projects.

Provided global technical advisory on cutting-edge automotive technologies, including Redundant Brake Systems and pre-filled Brake-Systems, influencing future product roadmaps.

Spearheaded strategic initiatives in automotive cybersecurity, ensuring Mando's product development aligned with emerging industry standards and threats.

Evaluated and recommended advanced technological solutions to enhance product performance and competitive positioning for Mando's next-generation systems.

Directed the European EPB Application Team, managing strategic R&D and application development for major clients including BMW, CMA, VW, and JLR.

Achieved a 30% cost reduction in European Actuation development by establishing a prototype shop in Europe, significantly reducing transportation costs and response times.

Orchestrated supplier selection processes in Europe for the Mando factory in Poland, optimizing supply chain efficiency and product quality.

Spearheaded initiatives to enhance product responsiveness and market competitiveness through localized development and manufacturing support.

Directed R&D operations, leading a multinational team of over 90 employees and 2 directors across Korea and Germany for Electronic Stability Control (ESC) systems.

Established a European Development Hub, enhancing customer access and leveraging regional knowledge for accelerated product development.

Initiated the BMW QfQ Program for Mini and oversaw the successful implementation of A-Spice processes, significantly improving development quality and efficiency.

Spearheaded the planning and kick-off for a new R&D building and test site in Frankfurt, expanding Mando's European engineering capabilities.

Directed global EE/EMC laboratory operations, supervising a 50+ member multinational team across Europe, China, and Japan, ensuring robust testing and validation.

Oversaw comprehensive ECU development for European and Asian customers, encompassing ABS, ESP, DAS, EPB, and IBS systems, from concept to release.

Pioneered an accelerated ECU testing concept and established a US$1.5M laboratory, significantly reducing development cycles and enhancing testing capabilities.

Established an independent prototyping process for ECUs, delivering early samples for critical project phases and accelerating time-to-market.

Played a key technical support role in the successful acquisition of the Nissan EPB contract for the Qashqai follower, securing significant new business.

Managed component obsolescence and led fast-track ECU prototyping, minimizing disruptions and maintaining project timelines.

Directed the development of electronic control units and actuators for axle lube leveling and electrical differential lock systems, enhancing heavy-duty vehicle performance.

Served as key liaison for European legislative bodies (CITA, GRRF), influencing regulatory compliance and industry standards for advanced technologies.

Managed the company's electronic content patent portfolio and led pre-development for electric park brake systems for trucks.

Cultivated strategic relationships with key customers (Volvo-Truck, Knorr, Wabco, Haldex, MB-Tech, Audi, Scania, Daimler), securing product quotes and fostering business growth.

Orchestrated cross-continental collaboration between US and Italian development centers to build a lube level control system, optimizing global R&D efforts.

Successfully managed all aspects of the issue-free closure of the Koblenz office, ensuring a smooth transition and operational continuity.

Achieved US$500K in cost savings by canceling EBS patents acquired through Lucas-HD, optimizing intellectual property assets.

Oversaw the construction of two demonstration trucks for the lube level control system, validating new technologies for market introduction.

Provided critical electronic and general support for active air systems utilized by Porsche and PSA, ensuring high-performance vehicle integration.

Managed the pre-development of electric park brakes for trucks and electronic control for axle lube leveling systems, driving innovation in commercial vehicle technology.

Acted as a primary liaison with European legislative bodies, influencing policy and ensuring compliance for advanced braking systems.

Conducted a patent infringement study for EBS systems, successfully nullifying a claim from Knorr-Bremse and protecting company intellectual property.

Played an active role in four mergers & acquisitions project teams, contributing to strategic growth and integration initiatives.

Oversaw the design, prototype build, and cost analysis for Electric Park Brake (EPB) systems on trucks, ensuring efficient development and market readiness.

Led a multi-functional team of 20 with indirect reports from 27 personnel across the UK and Germany, overseeing all phases of EPB system development and serial introduction.

Achieved a doubling of product system price and tripling of gross margin by implementing a unique feature that outperformed slip control, driving significant revenue growth.

Steered the successful transition of the development team into a multi-customer, multi-project servicing model, enhancing organizational agility and client responsiveness.

Functioned as a subject matter expert for EPB technology, providing critical technical guidance and innovation leadership.

Reached the final round of the prestigious Pace Award, recognizing excellence in automotive innovation.

Reduced field failure rates on Daimler EPIC pumps from 3,500 ppm to 500 ppm and VW/Skoda DPC pumps from 450 ppm to 80 ppm, achieving an average 85% improvement in product quality.

Optimized cooperation and performance of French engineers by improving personal French language skills and strengthening customer relationships.

Installed test benches in customer facilities, enabling immediate back-to-back comparisons and accelerating problem resolution.

Directed a team of 13 across Germany, Switzerland, and Austria, overseeing all service department facets and technical workshop concepts.

Orchestrated the successful restructuring of a 150-strong workshop service network into an 18 main dealer network, expanding sales to 100 second-level dealers.

Established and managed a training center for hotline support, enhancing customer service for German-speaking clients across Germany and Austria.

Expanded the garage network from 100 diesel diagnostic centers to 450 Lucas diagnostic centers, significantly increasing service reach and market penetration.

Generated sales of test equipment, including emission testers and pump test benches, contributing to revenue growth.

Led the development of electronic systems for new automotive products, contributing to innovation and market expansion.

Functioned as a Software Engineer within the ABS Department, developing and optimizing critical control algorithms.

Contributed to new product development initiatives, ensuring robust design and integration of electronic components.