Explore every episode of the podcast K>VOICES

In this episode of K>VOICES, we sit down with Wolfgang Kirchhoff, CEO of KIRCHHOFF Automotive, to learn more about the person behind one of the most recognizable faces in our company. Inspired by the storytelling approach used in previous K>VOICES episodes, this conversation explores Wolfgang's family roots, leadership journey, personal interests, and the experiences that have shaped his perspective.  

Growing up around a family business, Wolfgang was introduced to entrepreneurship and leadership from an early age. He reflects on his earliest memories of KIRCHHOFF, the lessons he learned while gaining experience outside the family company, and what it was like helping grow the business alongside his brothers.

Throughout the conversation, Wolfgang shares insights from more than three decades in the automotive industry. He discusses the challenges and opportunities that have shaped his career, the values that influence his leadership style, and the importance of staying connected with employees across KIRCHHOFF Automotive's global operations.

Family plays a central role in Wolfgang's life. He speaks about his wife and children, shares the story of how he met his wife while skiing in Austria, and reflects on the importance of maintaining strong family relationships while balancing the demands of leading a global company.

Listeners will also get a glimpse into Wolfgang's life beyond work. From cycling, swimming, skiing, and golf to reading during long flights, he discusses the hobbies and interests that help him stay energized and maintain perspective.

Join us for an engaging conversation about family, leadership, personal growth, company culture, and the experiences that have shaped Wolfgang's journey both inside and outside of KIRCHHOFF Automotive.

If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with a colleague.

What shapes a person’s perspective on life, leadership, and family?

In this episode of K>VOICES, Natasha Philpott sits down with Geza to explore a remarkable journey spanning generations, countries, and historic change.

Geza reflects on growing up in Hungary during the communist era, sharing firsthand experiences of life behind the Iron Curtain and how those early years shaped his outlook on opportunity, gratitude, and resilience. He also discusses his career journey, the lessons learned along the way, and the values that continue to guide him today.

Beyond work, Geza opens up about the importance of family to maintaining strong connections with a large extended family that gathers each summer. He also shares stories from his lifelong passion for windsurfing and the role it has played in his life.

This thoughtful conversation offers a unique perspective on history, personal growth, family traditions, and the experiences that shape who we become.

In this episode:

• Growing up in Hungary during communism
• Lessons learned throughout a diverse career journey
• The importance of family traditions and connections
• A lifelong passion for windsurfing
• How life experiences shape perspective and decision-making
• Reflections on resilience, gratitude, and personal growth

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about perspective, family, and what it means to go forward together.

In this episode of K>VOICES, we travel to Querétaro, Mexico, to speak with Mauricio, Plant Manager at KIRCHHOFF Automotive.

Mauricio shares his journey from working in different areas of the business—production, quality, and more—to leading an entire plant. He reflects on what drew him to the automotive industry, how hands-on experience shaped his approach to leadership, and what it was like guiding his team through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Outside of work, Mauricio and his family are deeply involved in a meaningful community initiative centered around therapeutic horseback riding. Together, they support children and young people with a range of medical and developmental needs, creating opportunities for growth and connection.

This episode highlights the importance of teamwork, resilience, and purpose—both inside and outside the plant.

In this episode of K>VOICES, we speak with Bence, KAPS Leader at KIRCHHOFF Automotive’s Esztergom plant, about his journey into lean management and the role of continuous improvement in daily operations.

Starting with a background in marketing, Bence transitioned into logistics and discovered a passion for lean thinking, working on real-time challenges and supporting teams on the shop floor. Today, he leads a small but impactful team focused on training, process improvement, and supporting major project launches.

He shares insights into what it takes to navigate fast-moving projects, how teams manage uncertainty, and why mindset and collaboration are critical for long-term success.

Beyond his professional role, Bence reflects on how sports have shaped his leadership style and offers a glimpse into life outside of work in Hungary, from family life to travel and culture.

This episode provides a thoughtful look at how continuous improvement comes to life through people, teamwork, and everyday problem-solving.

In this episode of K>VOICES, we travel to Ovar, Portugal to meet Pedro Silva, a long‑standing member of the IT team. 
 
With more than 25 years at KIRCHHOFF Automotive, Pedro shares his experience leading IT in a production environment while also pursuing his passion for music. As a lifelong percussionist and carnival performer, Pedro’s story blends technology, tradition, and community. 
 
Tune in to hear Pedro’s reflections on career growth, cultural connection, family life, and the importance of focusing on the good things in both work and life. 

In this episode of K>VOICES, we speak with Sacheen who works in product development at our Aurora, Canada location, about his more than 20-year journey with the company and the experiences that shaped his approach to leadership and growth.

Originally from Mauritius, Sacheen came to Canada as an international student with plans to pursue aerospace engineering. An internship opportunity during his master’s degree introduced him to the automotive industry — a path he hadn’t originally envisioned, but one that quickly turned into a long-term career. 

Sacheen reflects on the value of adaptability, curiosity, and saying yes to unexpected opportunities. In today’s role, Sacheen supports both local and global initiatives. He also shares how movement plays a central role in his life — from yoga to Spartan racing — and how those experiences influence the way he approaches challenges at work and beyond.

From career pivots and leadership lessons to travel, fitness, food, and wine, this episode offers a thoughtful look at growth through perseverance and balance. 

In this episode of K>VOICES, we speak with Piotr, Head of Global Manufacturing Engineering at KIRCHHOFF Automotive, about his nearly 20‑year journey with the company and the experiences that shaped his approach to global leadership.

Starting his career as a manufacturing engineer in Poland, Piotr’s path has taken him across Europe, North America, Mexico, and China, where he supported plant expansions, new facility launches, and cross‑regional engineering teams. He shares what it’s like to lead a global function, how cultural differences influence collaboration, and why teamwork is critical behind every major milestone.

Beyond the technical side of the role, Piotr opens up about relocating internationally with his family, adapting to new environments, and what he values most after years of travel. From career advice for engineers to his dream car and favorite ways to unwind, this episode offers a thoughtful, personal look at leadership in global manufacturing engineering.

In this episode of K>VOICES, we sit down with Erin from our Tecumseh plant in the USA to talk about career growth, leadership, and the people‑first side of human resources. Since joining KIRCHHOFF Automotive more than a decade ago, Erin has grown her career from the ground up, supporting a large and diverse team while helping shape a positive workplace culture.

Erin shares what drew her to the automotive industry, the lessons she’s learned through different stages of her career, and what it’s like working in a fast‑paced, 24‑hour manufacturing environment. She reflects on the importance of trust, teamwork, and employee engagement—and how meaningful recognition can make a real difference in people’s day‑to‑day experience at work.

The conversation also goes beyond the workplace. Erin opens up about balancing a demanding role with family life, being a busy parent, and learning how to leave work at work in order to be present for what matters most. From youth sports and family trips to life with a new golden retriever puppy, this episode offers an honest and relatable look at the person behind the role.

Tune in to hear Erin’s thoughtful perspective on growth, leadership, and staying grounded—both professionally and personally.

Join us in this episode of K>VOICES as we sit down with Cristina Tuta, Production Manager at our Craiova plant in Romania. With over 11 years at KIRCHHOFF Automotive, Cristina shares a candid and inspiring look into her journey from engineering student to leading production in one of our busiest plants.

Cristina opens up about the unexpected path that shaped her career, the mentors who guided her, and the team culture that keeps her motivated day after day. She talks about what it’s really like to work in production—where no two days are ever the same—and how problem‑solving, structure, and people fuel her passion for the job.

Outside the plant, Cristina reflects on balancing motherhood, ambition, and a family life filled with travel, curiosity, and laughter. From weekend barbecues to planning trips around the world, she reminds us that growth doesn’t just happen in our careers—it happens in the moments we share with the people we love.

This episode is full of warmth, honesty, and practical wisdom for anyone building their career or trying to find their place in the world.

In this episode of K>VOICES, we head to our Iserlohn plant in Germany to meet Dragan logistics leader and long‑time football coach whose story blends discipline, passion, and a love for continuous challenge.

Dragan shares how his journey at KIRCHHOFF Automotive began back in 2011 as a trainee in engineering, eventually leading him to a dynamic career in logistics—where every day brings new puzzles to solve. He opens up about the fast pace of the shop floor, the importance of precise planning, and the motivation he finds in tackling something different each day.

Outside of work, Dragan steps into a very different spotlight: the world of Europe’s ICON League, where he serves as head coach for Players United. What started as a simple Instagram account during the pandemic—sharing training exercises and coaching tips—quickly caught the attention of major football personalities and ultimately led to his recruitment into the league.

From coaching in front of 14,000 fans to balancing match days with family life and his role at KA, Dragan offers an inspiring look at what it means to pursue your passions wholeheartedly.

Tune in to hear Dragan talk about:
• His career journey from engineering trainee to logistics team leader
• The daily challenges and rewards of leading internal logistics
• How his coaching content gained recognition from world‑class players
• The thrill of competing in the ICON League
• Coaching his son and sharing football moments as a family

Listen now and get inspired by a story where dedication meets opportunity—on and off the pitch.

In this episode of K>VOICES, we sit down with Marcus, a former NFL player who is now part of KIRCHHOFF Automotive’s Operations team in the USA, to hear how his experience on the field shaped his approach to teamwork and leadership today. Marcus shares his inspiring journey from undrafted rookie to professional athlete, his unexpected pivot into the automotive world, and how lessons from the football field continue to shape his leadership today.

Outside of work, Marcus talks about life as a proud husband and dad, his love of Louisiana-style BBQ (with a backyard full of grills and smokers), and what it’s like creating a new entertaining space at home.

Enjoyed this episode? Follow or subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with a friend. To learn more about KIRCHHOFF Automotive and our global team, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn.

🌐 www.kirchhoff-automotive.com

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kirchhoff-automotive

In this episode, we sit down with Eva from the Marketing team in Germany. Eva shares her unique career journey, from studying international business and starting in HR, to pivoting into communications during the 2008 recession. We talk about what it's like to work in a global team, the power of adaptability, and why Eva loves the fast-paced world of internal comms.

Outside of work, Eva is a seasoned traveler (she's been to 45 countries!), a passionate hiker, and a soprano in her local choir, the Blue Notes. It’s an inspiring conversation about embracing change, staying connected to your passions, and finding fulfillment both professionally and personally.

Enjoyed this episode? Follow or subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with a friend. To learn more about KIRCHHOFF Automotive and our global team, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn.

🌐 www.kirchhoff-automotive.com

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kirchhoff-automotive

In this episode of K>VOICES, we sit down with Jochen, a long-time member of the automotive industry and a passionate engineer, for an engaging and heartfelt conversation.

Jochen shares how a childhood love of engines led him from restoring old motorcycles to working in the global automotive world, and why that passion still drives him today. You’ll hear about his latest project refurbishing a 33-foot boat, his love of scuba diving, and the incredible story of rescuing his dog Haley during a vacation abroad.

It’s a story about curiosity, resilience, leadership, and the joy of life beyond work. Don’t miss this inspiring episode!

Enjoyed this episode? Follow or subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with a friend. To learn more about KIRCHHOFF Automotive and our global team, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn.

🌐 www.kirchhoff-automotive.com

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kirchhoff-automotive

In this episode of K>VOICES, we sit down with Elizabeth, who works in Materials Management at KIRCHHOFF Automotive in North America. Elizabeth shares her inspiring journey from growing up in the Dominican Republic to pursuing higher education in the United States on a government scholarship. She talks about her career path in supply chain management, her experiences moving between plants, and how she balances work travel with family life. 

Outside of the office, Elizabeth’s passion for cooking shines through from Dominican and Mexican dishes to perfecting her Thanksgiving turkey, thanks to KIRCHHOFF’s holiday giveaways.

Her story is one of resilience, opportunity, and creativity, both in leadership and in life.

Enjoyed this episode? Follow or subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with a friend. To learn more about KIRCHHOFF Automotive and our global team, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn.

🌐 www.kirchhoff-automotive.com

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kirchhoff-automotive

In this episode of K>VOICES, we travel to Attendorn, Germany for a meaningful conversation with Armin, head of our Manufacturing Engineering department. 

Armin reflects on his remarkable 35-year journey with KIRCHHOFF Automotive—from his early days in maintenance to becoming the pioneer of our CME department. He shares how curiosity, lifelong learning, and collaboration across cultures shaped his leadership and helped build strong teams around the world.

But there’s more to Armin than his professional legacy. He’s also a devoted family man, a proud grandfather of six, and someone who believes deeply in the power of “additions”—those unexpected moments and relationships that change the course of our lives. As he prepares to retire this spring, Armin opens up about the people, experiences, and values that defined his career.

Tune in to meet Armin and celebrate the leadership, humanity, and global impact he leaves behind at KIRCHHOFF Automotive.

Enjoyed this episode? Follow or subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with a friend. To learn more about KIRCHHOFF Automotive and our global team, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn.

🌐 www.kirchhoff-automotive.com

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kirchhoff-automotive

In this episode of K>VOICES, we head to the USA for a heartwarming conversation with Miranda from Human Resources. Miranda opens up about what drew her to HR, her dedication to supporting colleagues, and how her passion for helping others fuels her work every day.

But there’s more to Miranda than meets the eye, she’s also a Star Wars superfan, an enthusiastic baker, and someone who brings a lot of heart to the workplace. From building connections at KIRCHHOFF Automotive to baking the perfect cookie, Miranda shares how she blends personal passions with professional purpose.

Tune in to meet Miranda and discover the people-first spirit that drives our Human Resources team.

Enjoyed this episode? Follow or subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with a friend. To learn more about KIRCHHOFF Automotive and our global team, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn.

🌐 www.kirchhoff-automotive.com

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kirchhoff-automotive

In this episode of K>VOICES, we sit down with Larry, a member of our Leadership team for KIRCHHOFF Automotive North America. 

Just two years into his leadership role, Larry shares the challenges and opportunities of guiding a global automotive company through growth and transformation. 

Beyond the boardroom, Larry and his wife recently traveled to Kenya to help build an orphanage, an inspiring journey that highlights the connection between leadership, purpose, and giving back. 

Join us for a thoughtful conversation on leadership, values, and vision for the future.

Enjoyed this episode? Follow or subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with a friend. To learn more about KIRCHHOFF Automotive and our global team, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn.

🌐 www.kirchhoff-automotive.com

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kirchhoff-automotive

In this episode of K>VOICES, we sit down with Thomas Kirchhoff, acclaimed classical guitarist, and the KIRCHHOFF Group’s Cultural Representative, to explore how creativity, music, and cultural expression have become part of everyday life for employees around the world.

From organizing electrifying concerts and community-wide art projects to building tree sculptures and launching surprise drumming sessions, Thomas shares the stories behind Culture Life, a groundbreaking initiative designed to connect and inspire our teams through shared cultural experiences.

We talk about the impact of these events, the importance of engaging not just employees but their families, and why culture belongs in the workplace.

Enjoyed this episode? Follow or subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with a friend. To learn more about KIRCHHOFF Automotive and our global team, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn.

🌐 www.kirchhoff-automotive.com

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kirchhoff-automotive

In this episode of K>VOICES, we travel to Ireland to meet John, who manages KIRCHHOFF Automotive’s Irish and Romanian plants.

John shares how his career took an unexpected turn from finance into manufacturing, what it’s like managing different countries and cultures, and how his background helps him lead with both logic and empathy.

Outside of work, John gives us a glimpse into his life on the farm in Northern Ireland — from raising cattle and sheep to family life and his unique approach to “5S farming.”

Tune in for an inspiring and down-to-earth conversation about leadership, adaptability, and finding balance between industrial innovation and rural roots.

Enjoyed this episode? Follow or subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with a friend. To learn more about KIRCHHOFF Automotive and our global team, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn.

🌐 www.kirchhoff-automotive.com

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kirchhoff-automotive

In this episode of K>VOICES, we sit down with Danny, who works in Human Resources for KIRCHHOFF Automotive across North America, to explore the twists and turns of her career journey, from studying fashion design and working in retail to leading global systems and integration projects.

Danny opens up about what drew her to human resources, the challenges of moving from plant based roles to corporate environments, and why she’s passionate about improving processes to support her colleagues. We also dive into her creative side hustle, Dames of York, a gothic fashion resale business built on sustainability, self-expression, and a love for thrifting.

Whether you're into people strategy, career pivots, or creative entrepreneurship, this episode is full of inspiration.

Enjoyed this episode? Follow or subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with a friend. To learn more about KIRCHHOFF Automotive and our global team, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn.

🌐 www.kirchhoff-automotive.com

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kirchhoff-automotive

In this episode of K>VOICES, we travel to Poland to meet Bartosz, a global Human Resources professional at KIRCHHOFF Automotive with an unexpected talent for trivia. Bartosz has competed on national television across some of Poland’s most popular game shows, including Jeopardy, Who Wants to Be a Millionaire, and Giants of History.

Beyond the spotlight, he’s a passionate traveler, a devoted family man, and a true cinema enthusiast with a collection of over 20,000 films. Bartosz shares how his love of learning shaped both his adventures on TV and his 15-year career in Human Resources, from recruiting and training at the local level to managing global learning systems today.

Tune in to hear Bartosz's inspiring journey, his stories from the quiz show stage, and the lessons he’s carried into his professional and personal life.

Enjoyed this episode? Follow or subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with a friend. To learn more about KIRCHHOFF Automotive and our global team, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn.

🌐 www.kirchhoff-automotive.com

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kirchhoff-automotive

In this episode of K>VOICES, we sit down with Jorge from the Quality team at KIRCHHOFF Automotive in Portugal, whose leadership is defined by resilience, teamwork, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Jorge reflects on navigating major challenges, from implementing hot forming during COVID to driving a ‘Zero Defects’ culture, and how mentoring young engineers has shaped his approach to leadership.

He also shares how his passion for paddle sports and community involvement outside of work helps strengthen collaboration and trust within his team.

A conversation about quality, culture, and the people who make it all possible.

Enjoyed this episode? Follow or subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with a friend. To learn more about KIRCHHOFF Automotive and our global team, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn.

🌐 www.kirchhoff-automotive.com

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kirchhoff-automotive

In this episode of K>VOICES, we sit down with Jimmy, working on our Operations Team in China. 

With more than a decade at KIRCHHOFF Automotive, Jimmy shares his career journey, the turning points that shaped his leadership, and the values that guide him both at work and at home as a father of two. 

He also talks about how his passion for badminton connects to his professional life and the lessons it continues to teach him. 

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about growth, balance, and the future of our company in China.

Enjoyed this episode? Follow or subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with a friend. To learn more about KIRCHHOFF Automotive and our global team, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn.

🌐 www.kirchhoff-automotive.com

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kirchhoff-automotive

In this episode of K>VOICES, we travel to Hungary to meet Veronika who works in Quality at KIRCHHOFF Automotive whose passion for teamwork and safety shines both on and off the job.

Since joining the company in 2011, Veronika has built a career grounded in collaboration, precision, and care — values that extend into her personal life as well. From training new colleagues and supporting audits to leading community initiatives like the company's Dragon Boat Team, she embodies the true spirit of KIRCHHOFF Automotive.

Join us as Veronika shares how she balances her love for sports, gardening, and travel with her dedication to quality and continuous learning. Her story reminds us that teamwork, determination, and heart can create meaningful impact in every area of life.

Enjoyed this episode? Follow or subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with a friend. To learn more about KIRCHHOFF Automotive and our global team, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn.

🌐 www.kirchhoff-automotive.com

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kirchhoff-automotive

In this episode of K>VOICES, we travel to Romania to meet Gabriel, a seasoned leader who has been with KIRCHHOFF Automotive for more than 14 years. 

From overseeing two plants and navigating long commutes, to fostering a strong community both inside and outside the workplace, Gabriel shares the milestones of his career and the culture that makes Romania unique. 

We'll hear about his proudest achievements, including a special kindergarten renovation project, his life as a father of three daughters, and his love for tractors, fishing, and Romanian traditions.

Enjoyed this episode? Follow or subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with a friend. To learn more about KIRCHHOFF Automotive and our global team, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn.

🌐 www.kirchhoff-automotive.com

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kirchhoff-automotive

In this episode of K>VOICES, we sit down with Daniel from our Controls Engineering department in Mexico, whose passion for improving processes and driving innovation shines on the shop floor.

But Daniel’s story doesn’t stop there, outside of work, he and his wife co-founded Crown Dance Studio, a thriving contemporary dance academy that brings together students of all ages to express themselves through movement.

From robotics and automation to choreography and performance, Daniel shares how he balances two careers, what inspires him both at work and in the studio, and why discipline and creativity go hand in hand. Plus, we end with a fun question about his dream car.

Enjoyed this episode? Follow or subscribe, leave a rating or review, and share it with a friend. To learn more about KIRCHHOFF Automotive and our global team, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn.

🌐 www.kirchhoff-automotive.com

🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/kirchhoff-automotive