Daniel Birkholm
El Paso
Summary
Results-driven leader with expertise in operational roles focused on collaboration, development, and continuous improvement. Proven track record in building strong relationships within international organizations to achieve strategic and operational goals. Extensive experience in both start-up environments and global organizations, demonstrating adaptability in diverse cultural settings. Recognized for balancing immediate challenges on shop floor with long-term organizational objectives.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
VP Operational Projects
Ambu King Systems
Ciudad Juarez
02.2023 - Current
- Management and ramp-up of new 40,000 m2 manufacturing site.
- Facilitated organizational growth, expanding to 650 FTEs.
- Executed successful product line transfers and validation from US and Asia to Mexico.
- Developed training programs to ensure effective ramp-up and performance in new location.
Director, Global Operations
Ambu A/S
Copenhagen
10.2020 - 01.2023
- Executed global manufacturing transfer and capacity planning to enhance overall production efficiency.
- Led operational risk management initiatives to mitigate potential disruptions.
- Spearheaded manufacturing efficiency projects utilizing LEAN methodologies for process optimization.
- Managed capacity investments and execution to meet growing market demands.
Director NPI
Ambu A/S
Copenhagen
07.2017 - 09.2020
- Managed process development, test and verification, and injection moulding teams effectively.
- Facilitated innovation project transfers from development to operations seamlessly.
- Led Innovation Technology Track to establish new manufacturing processes and enhance efficiency.
- Steering committee member in multiple development projects.
Plant Manager
Ambu Ltd.
Xiamen
05.2012 - 06.2017
- Managed manufacturing facility with 700 employees, ensuring operational efficiency.
- Implemented LEAN and Six Sigma methodologies, achieving significant cost savings.
- Developed injection moulding processes and tooling to enhance production capabilities.
- Led quality development initiatives, successfully guiding site through BSI and FDA inspections.
Production Engineer
Ambu A/S
Copenhagen
12.2007 - 04.2012
- Driving LEAN implementation with cross-functional teams throughout the organization.
- Conducted LEAN training for all personnel to enhance operational efficiency.
- Executed process automation projects, achieving significant cost savings.
- Managed manufacturing transfer projects from Denmark to Asia, ensuring seamless transitions.
Production Leader
Chempaq A/S
Copenhagen
08.2003 - 11.2007
- Developed manufacturing processes from proof-of-concept stage in startup environment.
- Managed automation projects for single-use blood cell counting cartridges.
- Oversaw clean room manufacturing and molding operations.
- Implemented quality, cost, and delivery performance improvements.
- Facilitated transfer of manufacturing from Denmark to Germany and later to Czech Republic, including training initiatives.
Machinist/Tool Maker
Celwave RF A/S
Hilleroed
01.1995 - 07.2001
- Supported production lines and technical/R&D departments through machining capabilities and documentation.
- Manufactured tools, prototypes, and fixtures to meet project requirements.
- Developed technical solutions using CAD/CAM software and CNC machinery.
- Calibration equipment responsible to ensure optimal performance and accuracy.
Education
Global Manufacturing Leadership
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT XPRO)
12-2025
Mini MBA - Diploma in Management
Probana Business School
Copenhagen01-2014
Degree in Production Technology -
Polytechnic Academy of Industrial Production
Copenhagen01-2003
Machinst / Tool Maker
Hilleroed Techinal School
Hilleroed Denmark01-1995
Skills
- Business strategy
- Leadership and people development
- Manufacturing efficiency
- Problem-solving abilities
- Effective communication
- Adaptable and flexible
Affiliations
- Travel with family to explore the world, meeting different cultures and create memories.
- Passionate about running. It helps me stay healthy and fit, I enjoy the traning process, attending races but also the social runs with a group.
- Other interests: Stock market, MotoGp
Certification
- Design control for Medical devices, EduQuest, Malaysia, 2013
- Process validation for Medical devices, EduQuest, Malaysia, 2013
- Six Sigma Green belt, Technological Institute, Denmark, 2010
- LEAN Navigator in Production, Technological Institute, Denmark, 2009
- Process validation, concepts and application, Anita Thibeault, Denmark, 2008
Languages
English
Full Professional
German
Professional
Danish
Native/ Bilingual
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
VP Operational Projects
Ambu King Systems
02.2023 - Current
Director, Global Operations
Ambu A/S
10.2020 - 01.2023
Director NPI
Ambu A/S
07.2017 - 09.2020
Plant Manager
Ambu Ltd.
05.2012 - 06.2017
Production Engineer
Ambu A/S
12.2007 - 04.2012
Production Leader
Chempaq A/S
08.2003 - 11.2007
Machinist/Tool Maker
Celwave RF A/S
01.1995 - 07.2001
Global Manufacturing Leadership
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT XPRO)
Mini MBA - Diploma in Management
Probana Business School
Degree in Production Technology -
Polytechnic Academy of Industrial Production
Machinst / Tool Maker
Hilleroed Techinal School
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