Through the intensive reasearch experience I gained during my PhD research work a one of the best technical Universities in Germany, I have achieved extensive knowledge in all aspects of modern metallurgical operations. The research work into the metallurgical processing of new resources form the deep-sea (https://www.researchgate.net/profile/David_Friedmann) provided a excellent learning oppurtunity in primary metallurgy.I bring this experience in daily to the lead & precious metals operations at Aurubis' complex smelter plant in Hamburg. The metallurgy of precious metals and lead have their own unique characteristics and important details. Today, daily management of furnace operations, personell and improvement projects are my primary focus.