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Michael N. Sehnert
Google, Director of Product Lifecycle and Technical Operations
Professional Background
Michael N. Sehnert is an accomplished professional in the field of Operations and Manufacturing with a rich background in transforming organizations through effective management and innovative process techniques. He is fervently dedicated to the science of manufacturing, making insightful use of analytics, LEAN methodologies, Six Sigma, continuous improvement strategies, and new product introduction (NPI) initiatives. His experience spans several continents, expertly managing teams and operations across multiple sites located in the USA, Korea, Belgium, and China.
As a global manager, Michael has excelled in building and leading diverse teams of Operational Program Managers, Material Program Managers, and Material Managers. His leadership has been instrumental in the successful creation of cutting-edge consumer electronics for globally recognized brands such as Amazon Echo, Alexa, Kindle, Fire TV, and Fire Tablet. Building cohesive teams united by a shared vision for success has not only been a professional goal for Michael but also a personal passion, enhancing the overall effectiveness and morale of every team he leads.
Michael's background is characterized by his profound knowledge of the consumer electronics landscape, where he leverages his skills to achieve remarkable results in manufacturing and operations. His expertise in turnaround strategies has improved global-based electronic manufacturing businesses significantly, with a keen focus on customer satisfaction and innovative solutions. From providing guidance in safety, supply chain management, to spearheading engineering projects, Michael’s holistic approach towards operations management proves vital in the ever-evolving tech landscape.
Education and Achievements
Michael's academic prowess underscores his professional insights. He holds a dual MBA with a focus on International Business and specific emphasis on Chinese and Asian business practices from the prestigious Washington University in St. Louis. This foundational knowledge, complemented by a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree in Chemistry and Biochemistry from Arizona State University, solidifies his capability to approach operations with a unique blend of scientific understanding and business acumen.
Throughout his career, Michael has held critical roles in some of the leading organizations in technology and manufacturing sectors. His tenure at Google as the Director of Product Line and Technical Operations and at Amazon Lab126 in various director roles has enabled him to significantly contribute to projects involving advanced manufacturing engineering and product operations. His earlier positions at Rogers Corporation as Vice President and Managing Director allowed him to navigate complexities of Asia manufacturing and global operations technology.
Notable Achievements
Some of Michael's key achievements include serving as a Six Sigma and LEAN Continuous Improvement Champion, where he has driven process improvements that focus on eliminating waste and enhancing efficiency. His role in various companies has centered around managing multifaceted support functions including safety protocols, supply chain logistics, engineering oversight, and new product introductions. Michael is well-versed in advanced techniques such as Process Safety Management (PSM), Kaizen, Hoshin Kanri, Total Quality Control (TQC), and concurrent product development, consolidating his expertise in areas crucial for operational excellence in manufacturing.
His strategic mindset is evident in his previous initiatives where he successfully led teams through significant changes and cultural shifts aimed at achieving operational excellence. Michael's understanding of both forward and reverse logistics, alongside his experience in automotive electronics and environmental initiatives, positions him as a prominent figure in modern manufacturing processes.
Michael’s commitment to fostering a collaborative environment has yielded substantial returns, not just in productivity but also in nurturing an organizational culture that embraces continuous improvement. His mentorship and leadership have empowered teams to excel and innovate, setting the groundwork for future advancements in consumer electronics.
