From organ building to product innovation

“HEY! I’m Peter, 50 years old, part of #TEAMRK for 17 years, and teamlead of product development. This is where ideas turn into innovative solutions. My motivation: challenging the status quo, developing new ideas, and mastering creative and technical challenges.

What do I love about my job? The variety! No two days are the same. One day, I dive deep into technical details; another, I work on creative concepts or collaborate with customers and colleagues. The mix of strategy, innovation, and teamwork makes my job unique.

Even outside of work, creativity plays a major role in my life. As a goalkeeping coach, I pass on my experience, in cooking, I love trying new things, and music provides the perfect balance. The combination of craftsmanship, precision, and creativity accompanies me in everything I do.”

His path into product development did not start at a desk but in a workshop. As a trained carpenter and master organ builder, Peter learned early on to work with the highest precision – each piece was unique, and mistakes were not an option. This experience shaped him and formed the foundation of his structured and solution-oriented approach.

Joining REINHOLD KELLER opened up a new world for him. He started as a project manager, later took on responsibility for the Southern European hotel market, and was ultimately responsible for implementing the Borm ERP system in the system gastronomy sector. At the same time, the product development department was established – a logical step, as an efficient ERP system and targeted product development go hand in hand.

Every product starts with an idea – but the journey to mass production is long. “There is no typical workday,” Peter says, “but there is a clear mission: understanding customer requirements, developing well-thought-out solutions, and bringing economically viable products to market.”

How does product development work? Using a chair as an example, Peter explains:

“First, there is a design specification from the customer. We clarify materials and evaluate how the idea can be technically implemented. After a kick-off meeting with all relevant departments, the design team creates the initial drawings. The purchasing department then obtains quotes, while cost calculation determines feasibility. Next, prototypes are built and tested for stability by quality assurance. Only when everything meets the required standards does the product go into production.”

Product development requires quick decisions and clear structures, as delays impact the entire process chain. Peter and his team of seven experts rely on efficient workflows and close collaboration with all stakeholders to remain flexible and implement solutions effectively.

He is particularly proud of the successful collaboration with Turkish suppliers, who have been seamlessly integrated into the company structure through RK Mobiliya. “This demonstrates the importance of sustainable partnerships on equal footing,” he emphasizes.

Another highlight in his RK career was receiving the “Global Three Legged Stool Award” at the McDonald’s Worldwide Convention 2024 in Barcelona – recognition for the entire #TEAMRK and the strong collaboration with McDonald’s and its franchisees.

After all these years at RK, Peter is certain: product development is about more than just technology and processes – it’s about people, collaboration, and shared success. The interdisciplinary work and continuous development drive him because every new challenge brings new opportunities.

For him, REINHOLD KELLER is not just an employer but an environment that fosters innovation and provides employees with the freedom to develop ideas. Trust, team spirit, and the courage to invest in forward-thinking developments make all the difference.

“Here, it’s not just about the result but also the journey – defined by openness and the drive to continuously improve.” This dynamic keeps him passionate about his work even after 17 years.