Case Study | Digital Transformation Project Manager for an Automotive SME

Functional Topic

Digital Transformation – Project Management

Project Industry

Automotive

Needed Support

Project Manager

Duration

5 Months

The Challenge

A German mid-sized enterprise (SME) in the automotive sector embarked on a company-wide digital transformation. To ensure successful execution, the company needed a Digital Transformation Project Manager to support strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and the implementation of multiple digital initiatives.

Key challenges included:

Limited internal capacity to manage a diverse portfolio of digital innovation projects.
A need for structured evaluation and business case development for investments in IoT, automation, and data-driven solutions.
Lack of coordination between digital leadership and operational teams.

The client sought a project manager who could work hands-on, drive execution, and bridge strategy with delivery.

Role of Consultport

Consultport was engaged to find a Project Manager for their Digital Transformation initiatives with deep experience in:

Agile project management and PMO leadership
Evaluating the technical and financial feasibility of digital initiatives
Communicating with board-level stakeholders
Bilingual capabilities (German and English)

Within 48 hours, Consultport delivered a shortlist of qualified consultants. The selected expert brought extensive experience managing transformation programs in corporate settings, including 10 years of experience at BMW, and a strong track record in automotive innovation.

The Approach

The digital transformation project manager brought structured approach focused on aligning digital strategy with execution:

Strategic Portfolio Management

Assessed and prioritized the company’s digital project pipeline, including initiatives in automation, dynamic pricing, IoT, and 3D printing.
Provided recommendations for strategic investments in digital technology.

Stakeholder Engagement

Prepared and facilitated meetings with board members and senior leadership.
Supported the CDO and Head of Digital Transformation on program-level decision-making.

Operational Execution

Co-managed digital project teams and supported implementation across departments.
Acted as a liaison between corporate stakeholders and startups to foster innovation.

Hands-On Contribution

Took ownership of operational tasks when needed, maintaining momentum across all initiatives.
To ensure the right buy-in for the digital transformation, the project manager conducted regular workshops and employee training to minimize resistance.

The Results

With the support of the Digital Transformation Project Manager, the company achieved several key outcomes: