Written by Quang Nguyen Le

On a recent afternoon at National Sun Yat-sen University, students in the IBBA209 Production and Operations Management course had the unique opportunity to engage with a seasoned industry expert. Mr. Ingo Thiel, a senior executive from EJOT SE & Co. KG Taiwan Branch, visited the class to share valuable insights into his professional journey, industry experience, and the day-to-day challenges of managing operations in a global manufacturing firm.

EJOT is a renowned German company specializing in advanced fastening solutions for the automotive, construction, and industrial sectors. With operations across the globe, including its Taiwan branch, EJOT plays a critical role in delivering precision-engineered components to leading businesses. Mr. Thiel, who has spent several years in Taiwan heading key operations for EJOT, brought with him a wealth of knowledge from both the European and Asian markets.

Invited by Professor Timo Eccarius, the course instructor and an advocate for experiential learning, Mr. Thiel's guest lecture aligned perfectly with the course's mission: bridging the gap between theory and practice in production and operations management. During the session, Mr. Thiel walked students through the real-world application of concepts such as supply chain coordination, lean manufacturing, quality control, and customer-driven innovation. His presentation offered a behind-the-scenes look at how operational excellence is achieved in a highly competitive and technologically demanding industry.

Beyond processes and systems, Mr. Thiel shared his personal professional story—from starting his career in Germany to taking on leadership responsibilities in Asia. He spoke candidly about the cultural differences in management styles, the importance of cross-functional communication, and the value of flexibility in the face of global supply chain disruptions. Students were especially interested in hearing how EJOT responded to challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and shifting international trade conditions.

The session concluded with a lively Q&A, where students asked questions ranging from sustainability practices in manufacturing to the role of automation and AI in production environments. Mr. Thiel’s thoughtful and honest responses provided not only clarity but also inspiration. Many students commented that the lecture gave them a clearer picture of what it means to work in global operations and the competencies required to succeed.

As the IBBA program continues to foster strong connections between academia and industry, guest lectures like this are integral to the student learning experience. They not only enhance classroom discussions but also offer valuable career guidance to young professionals in training. The IBBA team extends its sincere gratitude to Mr. Ingo Thiel for his time and generosity in sharing his expertise. His visit underscores the importance of industry-academic collaboration and leaves a lasting impression on the next generation of global business leaders.