Ben Pfahl

Current

• Process and Information Systems Group at Schaeffler Group
• Manager Business Processes at Schaeffler Group USA

Past

• Project Manager at Tompkins Associates
• Project Manager at Sedlak
• IT Rep at American Greetings

see less...

Education

• Ashland University
• Bowling Green State University

Recommended

2 people have recommended Ben

Connections

138 connections

Industry

Information Technology and Services

Ben Pfahl’s Summary

Manager with unique background in both Information Technology and Supply Chain Management. Specializes in leveraging both IT and process changes to solve complex business problems. Equally comfortable performing executive presentations as well as working hands on with end-users to rollout new processes. A leader that enjoys working with diverse cross-functional teams in a global setting, and who thrives on the challenge of helping people reach their full potential.

Ben Pfahl’s Specialties:

Project Management
Business Analysis
Supply Chain Management
Warehousing & Distribution
IT Strategy
Systems Implementation
ERP & MHE Integration
Management of Both Internal and 3rd Party Resources

Ben Pfahl’s Experience

• Process and Information Systems Group

  Schaeffler Group

  (Information Technology and Services industry)

  November 2003 — Present (6 years 1 month)

• Manager Business Processes

  Schaeffler Group USA

  (Automotive industry)

  November 2003 — Present (6 years 1 month)

  Manages the development and support of all Supply Chain related IT Systems (including legacy ERP & RedPrairie WMS) for Schaeffler’s North American aftermarket business. Designed and implemented the interfaces between SAP and Schaeffler’s legacy ERP application. Collaborates with departmental managers to develop specifications for new systems as well as to continually improve Supply Chain business processes. Teams with other international locations (Germany, Mexico, etc.) to build global business solutions.
  
  Partners with operations to select and analyze Supply Chain metrics for both internal operations as well as vendor performance.
  
  Leads initiatives to reduce costs through improved forecasting methods.
  
  Assists Sales and Customer Service departments creating new strategies to improve customer service levels and streamline order processing.

• Project Manager

  Tompkins Associates

  (Privately Held; 51-200 employees; Logistics and Supply Chain industry)

  2002 — 2003 (1 year )

  Implemented a Supply Chain Execution solution for a major retailer and distributer of home products. The scope of the project included wireless devices, integration of material handling systems, and real-time interfaces with multiple host business systems. Worked with the client’s operations personnel to implement best in class processes for order fulfillment and inventory control.

• Project Manager

  Sedlak

  (Privately Held; 51-200 employees; Logistics and Supply Chain industry)

  1998 — 2002 (4 years )

  Managed teams implementing information systems and the development of strategies to optimize client distribution networks. Provided overall project management for complex multi-million dollar engagements. Authored functional specifications for new computer systems and coordinated interfaces for both 3rd party software and material handling systems. Led the development and execution of test plans for system implementations. Provided on-site leadership for both management and end-users through the entire design, development and go-live cycle. Helped clients to develop vendor performance programs and to capture Key Performance Indicators.

• IT Rep

  American Greetings

  (Public Company; 10,001 or more employees; Consumer Goods industry)

  1996 — 1998 (2 years )

  Collaborated with 3rd party consultants developing custom Supply Chain related IT applications (Warehouse Management, RF, etc.) for a $20+ million project. Took over primary production support role, assisting users and management on a daily basis.

Ben Pfahl’s Education

• Ashland University

  MBA , Business , 2005 — 2008

  Co-manager of the 1st place team in the Business Strategy Game (a globally competitive industry simulation).

• Bowling Green State University

  BA , MIS & International Business , 1992 — 1996

  Activities and Societies:

  Rugby Team

Additional Information

Ben Pfahl’s Interests:

New Technology, Supply Chain Operations, Travel, Sports (golf, rugby, football, jogging etc), Wine, Fine Dining, Reading (history & political), and Most Importantly: Spending Time with My Family

Ben Pfahl’s Groups:

•    American Red Cross
•    Bowling Green State University Alumni
•    ASUG - Americas SAP UserGroup
•    Rugby people unite !!!!
•    Rugby Union
•    Supply Chain Management Group
•    BGSU Alumni
•    Ashland University Alumni Network
•    9/11 - Never Forget
•    BG NETWORKING
•    CSCMP Member
•    LinkedWorking Cleveland
•    Warehouse Management System
•    American Greetings Employees and Alumni
•    Linked Medina
•    RedPrairie

Ben Pfahl’s Honors:

Guest Speaker for Youngstown State University’s College of Business Administration

Author of "Reducing Software Implementation Risk by Managing Modifications", Executive Technology, September 2000

Current leader ($ saved) in Schaeffler’s N. American Aftermarket Continuous Improvement Program (CIP)

Ben Pfahl’s Contact Settings

Interested In:

• new ventures
• expertise requests
• business deals
• reference requests
• getting back in touch