Sebastian Handrich
- Interim Betriebs- und Produktionsleitung
- Projektleitung in der Chemie-Industrie
Making Production More Efficient.
technically energetically operationally.
As an experienced operations leader, I take full accountability for transforming production units into stable, predictable, safe, and profitable operations, while ensuring total strategic alignment with executive leadership. I analyze manufacturing processes with analytic precision, stabilize manufacturing units, and implement sustainable solutions—leading the organization calmly and predictably towards the strategic goals of the business.
An independent leadership benchmark by Heidrick & Struggles verifies my capabilities in the worldwide top-decile (>90%) for profiles on Senior-Director level within Manufacturing Operations.
I assume immediate line, project, and operational responsibility where manufacturing organizations in the process industry need to become stable, predictable, safe, and highly profitable again. Flexibly available for strategic permanent roles within Senior Leadership (such as Plant Directorships or Operations Directorates) as well as for result-driven interim mandates to secure your chemical and pharmaceutical sites.
My Portfolio for
Stable Processes, Measurable Results, and Reduced Costs:
Operational Excellence & Efficiency Enhancement
I deliver measurable improvements in production and processes – with a strict focus on profitability, quality, and sustainability.
- Analysis, evaluation, and optimization of production processes (chemical, technical, organizational)
- Application of Lean and Six Sigma methodologies (OEE analysis, VSM, CIP)
- Introduction of standardized procedures and routines in production, maintenance, and logistics
- Establishment of KPI systems and performance controlling
- Implementation of short-term cost reduction programs and productivity increases
- People-oriented leadership, e.g., through workplace health management and the application of Lean principles
Energy Management & Sustainable Production
I achieve a reduction in energy sinks and implement efficient, certifiable systems.
- Identification and implementation of energy-saving measures (compressed air, insulation, heat recovery, process heat)
- Implementation and audit support according to ISO 50001
- Conception and execution of energetic modernizations during ongoing operations
- Subsidies and investment management (e.g., German BAFA, De-Minimis)
- Setup of energy monitoring systems (motor and compressed air monitoring, TIPCHECK)
Plant Management & Restructuring
I lead on a permanent or interim basis – with deep expertise in chemical production plants, from asset operation to full site directorship, ensuring team stabilization at every stage.
- Assumption of line and project responsibility (Plant Manager, Head of Production, Technical Director)
- Stabilization of operations in transition situations (restructuring, pre-insolvency, succession management)
- Development of efficient organizational structures and clear accountabilities
- Leadership, coaching, and development of production and shift teams
- Introduction or improvement of quality, safety, and environmental management systems (cGMP, HACCP, EFfCI, ISO 9001 / 14001 / 50001)
- ▪ Leadership using Key Behavior Indicators (KBI): engaging and developing the existing team to execute process changes smoothly.
I identify root causes – not just symptoms. I ensure that improvements are implemented sustainably. I combine technical understanding with business thinking and rapidly put both into practice." Sebastian Handrich, Interim Manager & Operations Leader"
Sebastian Handrich, Interim Manager
Ich erkenne Ursachen – nicht nur Symptome. Ich sorge dafür, dass Verbesserungen nachhaltig umgesetzt werden. Ich verbinde technisches Verständnis mit betriebswirtschaftlichem Denken und bringe beides schnell in die Praxis."
Sebastian Handrich, Interim Manager
Core Competencies
With over 20 years of experience – from chemical plant operator to site manager – I combine chemistry expertise, leadership, and efficiency thinking. I know plants, processes, and people – and implement changes realistically and effectively, even in complex environments.
Production Efficiency Enhancement
Process costs reduced by up to 40% – through Lean methodologies, structured analysis, and targeted adaptation of technical workflows.
Energy Management according to ISO 50001
Implemented energy modernizations in several chemical plants – reduction of utility costs by up to 20% while maintaining stable production baseloads.
Process Optimization & Debottlenecking
Increase in space-time yield by +40% – through chemical-technical process analysis, scale-up, and bottleneck elimination.
Plant Management with Bottom-Line Responsibility
Leadership of up to 30 employees in production, maintenance, and logistics – with full accountability for costs, deadlines, and quality standards.
Industrial Water & Wastewater Treatment
Development and implementation of wash-water post-treatment systems – full ROI / amortization of infrastructure investments (€120k) in less than 8 months.
Restructuring & Site Modernization
Introduced CIP systems, standardized workflows, and reduced costs by up to 30% – even in highly challenging and transitional environments.
Project Management with CapEx/OpEx Accountability
Planning and execution of CAPEX investments projects up to €150 k during ongoing operations -including regulatory compliance, quality, and safety management.