I am a seasoned professional with global sales development, data-driven strategic planning, and stakeholder management experience in the automotive sector. Recognized for demonstrating a natural aptitude for facilitating seamless project and program execution, as well as for strengthening budgetary control and building positive relationships with cross-functional stakeholders, I have a verifiable history of contributing directly to company growth and expansion throughout my career. As such, I have consistently exceeded performance goals and I am adept at driving continuous improvement. Professional focal points include market management, strategic consulting, workshop facilitation, decision-making, program management, team leadership, market analysis, and budget control. Delivering superior administration on the latter areas of expertise requires utilization of effective communication skills, interpersonal skills, as well as business acumen, opportunity development, project management, and resource management to support efficiencient and optimal outcomes. Most recently, I was the Manager of Vehicle Online Configuration (VOC) – Mercedes-Benz Vans with Mercedes-Benz AG. Under my leadership, I oversaw the operations, rebuild, and rollout of the VOC to 22 countries. I also controlled budgets and maintained stakeholder engagement. In addition, I am currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Business and Economics.Colleagues describe me as a progressive, driven, down-to-earth, innovative and leadership expert, having a wide acceptance across all levels and who can be relied on to offer superior solutions that deliver efficient and profitable results on time and - if possible - under budget. References are of course available upon request. In addition to my studies, I am presently a part-time academic lecturer in "Operative Controlling" and serve as a volunteer lifeguard at our community pool.I am pursuing new opportunities and can be reached through this profile, by email (gert.manning@gmx.net) or by phone at: +49 (0)170 - 50 6 7070.