References
Selected mandates from more than two decades – some named, many under confidentiality. What counts are verifiable results, not big words.
Interim crisis manager / SAFe Product Manager
Leading the build-up and accreditation of a sovereign private cloud infrastructure in the public sector – as crisis manager in the role of SAFe Product Manager within a scaled agile model. In the turnaround, the network architecture was rebuilt within 12 months from legacy data-center LAN to cloud-native software-defined networking.
Transformation Project Manager
Transforming the internal IT service organisation that runs the full standard-IT portfolio – from hardware and data-centre services through base infrastructure and virtualisation to the digital workplace and collaboration tools. Focused on effectiveness, reliability and ability to act; evolving the Lean-Agile operating system.
Chief Digital Officer (CDO)
Introducing the strategic portfolio process “RaceTrack”: less planning complexity, faster time-to-market and greater enterprise agility.
Chief Digital Officer (CDO)
Building and scaling the digital vehicle marketplace JuhuAuto, embedded in an end-to-end digital omni-channel process and a new customer-centric product unit.
Interim product & delivery lead
Reshaping the digital product portfolio and go-to-market strategy; building modern cloud/IoT products on a micro-frontend architecture. Security from day one: DevSecOps with threat modelling and shift left – and full operational ownership of the entire stack, from IoT platform to cloud-native applications.
Interim agile programme manager
Coaching the internal programme lead of a ~€90m programme with five cross-functional agile teams; KPI-driven risk management based on Monte Carlo simulations, with a direct reporting line to the executive board.
Managing Director
P&L ownership for €5m revenue, transforming the leadership model and company culture. At the same time modernised the firm from within: streamlined internal processes, introduced an ERP system and refreshed the external brand presence – the word marks shown here were part of that work.
Auditor team lead
Leading an eight-person auditor team in a global IT and business transformation in freight forwarding: phase-gate reviews and risk management for the overall programme, supporting roll-outs across country waves – including on site in Hong Kong. Plus assessing change requests and fact-based dispute resolution between client and vendor – a mediator role at programme level. Reporting directly to the programme board, led by the Chief Transformation Officer and the Chief Information Officer.
Advisor · second opinion
Independent second opinion on a large-scale IT outsourcing initiative in industry: a sober assessment of programme and contract risks. The key risks we flagged largely materialised at the client within the first twelve months.
Auditor / second opinion for the management board
Auditor / second-opinion role for the management board during the launch of Belgium's satellite-based truck toll system – leading a five-person team. Appointed by the three Belgian regions, the operator designed, built and went live with a complete nationwide tolling system in under two years – on 1 April 2016.
Manager
Building a team for the rapid mobilisation of large programmes across Europe – ramping up programmes with double- and triple-digit million-euro budgets. At the same time owning the project-management training track for the DACH region, with more than 100 consultants trained, and contributing to the global program-management curriculum.
Turnaround manager
Turnaround management of an e-commerce / multi-channel platform rollout in DIY retail – a critical programme brought back on track.
More entries coming soon.
Testimonials
Assessments from people I have worked with across mandates and projects.
Despite his impressive achievements in our industry, Elmar always retains a remarkable humility. What truly sets him apart in practice is the combination of deep professional expertise, enormous personal commitment and constant goal orientation. He pairs his expert knowledge with absolute honesty and a consistently respectful manner at eye level, regardless of hierarchy. It is precisely this blend of professional excellence, integrity and appreciation that makes Elmar a true leader – someone I have always enjoyed working with successfully and whom I gladly recommend.
Transformation Lead, Pragtics GmbH– Sarah Porep on LinkedInElmar is exactly the manager that large organisations need in change projects and challenging situations! He stands out for his agile, flexible thinking and his ability to communicate clearly and effectively across all hierarchical levels. With his collegial manner, his strong conflict-resolution skills and his consistent focus on goals and results, he is a genuine asset to any management team – especially in phases critical to success.
CDO, BWI– Christian Marwitz on LinkedInWith passion and implementation strength Elmar laid the foundation for a sustainable digital business transformation and enterprise agility.
Spokesman of the Management Board, BdK Banktoday: Founder, northpunkt– Martin Guse on LinkedInElmar is an experienced manager who sets the right strategic priorities – with an agile mindset and a strong drive to deliver digital results.
Head of Digital Solutions, Jungheinrichtoday: Interim Manager– Herwig Fölster on LinkedInWhat impressed me most was Mr Seestädt's ability to engage with software engineers and top managers alike – cooperatively and at eye level.
Vice President, DHL Global Forwardingtoday: Senior Vice President Logistics Services International, Miele & Cie. KG– Dr. Georg Rau on LinkedInBy building up SI-Mobilization, Elmar transformed and advanced Accenture's project-management capabilities.
Managing Director, Accenturetoday: Managing Director, Kijini GmbH– Frank Mang on LinkedInI worked with Elmar on his assignment in the India Development Center. Elmar built an atmosphere of trust and succeeded in setting up a cooperative relationship between the on- and offshore team.
Senior Systems Engineer, Accenturetoday: Senior Vice President, JP Morgan Chase & Co– Vishal Zadoo on LinkedInMore entries coming soon.
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