Learn about DIF AG

<img width="768" height="927" src="https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Profilbild-Olaf-Schaefer-Welsen-85.webp" alt="" decoding="async" srcset="https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Profilbild-Olaf-Schaefer-Welsen-85.webp 768w, https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Profilbild-Olaf-Schaefer-Welsen-85-249x300.webp 249w, https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Profilbild-Olaf-Schaefer-Welsen-85-414x500.webp 414w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /> <h4>Let’s Get in Touch</h4> Mechanical Engineer, Energy and Heat Solutions Expert <h2>Dr.-Ing. Olaf Schäfer-Welsen</h2> <p>CTO & Co-Founder</p> <ul> <li> <h3>Department:</h3> <p>Management</p> </li> <li> <h3>Experience:</h3> <p>20+ Years</p> </li> <li> <h3>Email:</h3> <p><a>olaf.schaefer-welsen@dif.solutions</a></p> </li> <li> <h3>Phone:</h3> <p>+49 176 98 608 798</p> </li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/olaf-sch%C3%A4fer-welsen-80b0b629/" target=_blank> <svg aria-hidden="true" viewBox="0 0 448 512" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path d="M100.28 448H7.4V148.9h92.88zM53.79 108.1C24.09 108.1 0 83.5 0 53.8a53.79 53.79 0 0 1 107.58 0c0 29.7-24.1 54.3-53.79 54.3zM447.9 448h-92.68V302.4c0-34.7-.7-79.2-48.29-79.2-48.29 0-55.69 37.7-55.69 76.7V448h-92.78V148.9h89.08v40.8h1.3c12.4-23.5 42.69-48.3 87.88-48.3 94 0 111.28 61.9 111.28 142.3V448z"></path></svg> </a> </li> </ul> <h3>Biography</h3> <p><strong>Dr. Olaf Schäfer-Welsen is a highly accomplished Mechanical Engineer and a results-driven technical manager</strong>, distinguished by over 20 years of professional experience, including 12 years in leadership roles.<br /><br />He possesses strong expertise in R&D, product development, strategy, business development, and digitalization within the energy sector, with a keen focus on sustainability, environment, and innovation.<br /><br />Currently, Dr. Schäfer-Welsen serves as Head of the “Hydrogen-Initiatives” at naturenergie AG since 2024. He leads the hydrogen initiatives of naturenergie AG, overseeing the development and operation of green hydrogen production based on renewable hydropower. His responsibilities include managing electrolyzer operations, addressing technical and logistical challenges, and advancing regional hydrogen infrastructure and partnerships to enable efficient storage, transport, and use of sustainable hydrogen.<br /><br />In his former role as Head of the department “Thermal Energy Converters” and Chief Digital Officer at the  Fraunhofer IPM, he has successfully reorganized the department, significantly improved key performance indicators (e.g., doubling the departments industrial revenue share in four years), and implemented a digital project management tool to enhance efficiency. He also led the acquisition of a €9 million project for the development of an electrocaloric heat pump.<br /><br />His extensive career includes significant leadership positions at <strong>MTU Friedrichshafen GmbH / Rolls Royce Power Systems</strong>, where he was Program Manager for "Intelligent Applications and Capabilities" (2016-2017), Director Research and Technology Engines (global) (2012-2015), and Director New Technologies and Design Studies (2011-2013).<br /><br />Earlier, he served as Executive Assistant to the CEO at Tognum AG (2007-2011) and was a Development Engineer/Project Manager for the "world's first railcar with a diesel particulate filter" at MTU Friedrichshafen GmbH / Tognum AG (2004-2007).<br /><br />He earned his <strong>Dr.-Ing. (summa cum laude)</strong> from the University of Karlsruhe's Institute for Thermal Fluid Machinery (1995-2004) and his <strong>Dipl.-Ing. (very good)</strong> in Mechanical Engineering, specializing in Energy and Heat Technology, from RWTH Aachen (1989-1995).</p> <h3>Latest Companies & Positions</h3> <img src="https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/favicon.webp" alt="image" /> <h4> DIF, Die IDEENFABRIK AG</h4> Co-Founder & CTO since 2025 <img src="https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/naturenergie-logo.webp" alt="image" /> <h4> naturenergie AG</h4> Head of "Hydrogen-Initiatives" 2024 <img src="https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/fraunhofer-favicon_96x96.png" alt="image" /> <h4> Fraunhofer IPM</h4> CDO & Head of Department (TEC) 2017 – 2024 <img src="https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/mtu-icon.png" alt="image" /> <h4> MTU / Rolls Royce Power Systems</h4> Program manager 2016 - 2017 <img src="https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/mtu-icon.png" alt="image" /> <h4> MTU / Rolls Royce Power Systems</h4> Director Research & Technology Engines 2012 - 2015 <h3>Professional Skills</h3> <p>Dr. Schäfer-Welsen's leadership experience includes managing <strong>up to 53 employees globally</strong> and overseeing a budget of up to <strong>€20 million annually</strong>. His scope of work covers engines, drivetrain, and waste heat utilization systems for various applications, from power supply plants and data centers to rail drives and superyachts. He specializes in customer and project-specific prototype development, always with a strong emphasis on environmental considerations and sustainability.</p>

<img width="768" height="927" src="https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Profilbild-Bernd-Danckert-90.webp" alt="" decoding="async" srcset="https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Profilbild-Bernd-Danckert-90.webp 768w, https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Profilbild-Bernd-Danckert-90-249x300.webp 249w, https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Profilbild-Bernd-Danckert-90-414x500.webp 414w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /> <h4>Let’s Get in Touch</h4> Mechanical Engineer, Technology & Management Expert <h2>Dipl.- Ing. Bernd Danckert</h2> <p>CEO & Founder</p> <ul> <li> <h3>Department:</h3> <p>Management</p> </li> <li> <h3>Experience:</h3> <p>30+ Years</p> </li> <li> <h3>Email:</h3> <p>bernd.danckert@dif.solutions</p> </li> <li> <h3>Phone:</h3> <p>+49 151 41 230 930</p> </li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/bernd-danckert-63b534a4/" target=_blank> <svg aria-hidden="true" viewBox="0 0 448 512" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path d="M100.28 448H7.4V148.9h92.88zM53.79 108.1C24.09 108.1 0 83.5 0 53.8a53.79 53.79 0 0 1 107.58 0c0 29.7-24.1 54.3-53.79 54.3zM447.9 448h-92.68V302.4c0-34.7-.7-79.2-48.29-79.2-48.29 0-55.69 37.7-55.69 76.7V448h-92.78V148.9h89.08v40.8h1.3c12.4-23.5 42.69-48.3 87.88-48.3 94 0 111.28 61.9 111.28 142.3V448z"></path></svg> </a> </li> </ul> <h3>Biography</h3> <p><strong>Bernd Danckert, Dipl.-Ing., is the Founder and CEO of DIF, die IDEENFABRIK AG</strong>, where he leads the development of <strong>PlasmaR, a revolutionary clean air technology</strong>. With over 30 years of experience, Mr. Danckert is a technically adept Mechanical Engineer renowned for his profound expertise in advanced product development, new powertrains, engines, emission reduction technologies, and renewable energy solutions.<br /><br />His extensive career includes pivotal roles as an <strong>Interim Manager and Technology Consultant</strong> since 2016, with a strong focus on new powertrains, emission reduction systems, and renewable energy technologies through Danckert Consulting and ICCL Ltd. & LLC. Notably, as <strong>Managing Director and Shareholder of DIF (2007-2016)</strong>, he achieved a significant turnaround for the company in 9 months, tripling revenue in two years, and establishing a new development center for large engines, gas engines, hybrids, and electric drives. Earlier, at <strong>Ricardo PLC (2005-2007)</strong>, he was instrumental in growing the Heavy Duty Diesel business tenfold.<br /><br />Committed to <strong>"Technologies for a Liveable Future,"</strong> Bernd Danckert embodies values such as trust, reliability, and a forward-thinking, international approach.</p><hr /> <h3>Latest Companies & Positions</h3> <img src="https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/favicon.webp" alt="image" /> <h4> DIF, Die IDEENFABRIK AG</h4> Founder & Chairman of the Board (VRP) since 2025 <img src="https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/iccl-icon-40x40-1.png" alt="image" /> <h4> ICCL, Integrated Consulting Company LLC</h4> Founder & Managing Director: Since 04/2023 <img src="https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/cropped-SAC-Icon-192x192-1.png" alt="image" /> <h4> sa-charging solutions AG</h4> Senior Advisor of the Board: 03/2022 – 11/2023 <img src="https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/oil-con1.svg" alt="image" /> <h4> TWINTEC AG / BAUMOT Group AG</h4> Managing Director and Shareholder: 2007 – 2016 <h3>Professional Skills</h3> <p>Mr. Danckert's expertise spans <strong>Industry 4.0, 3D Additive Manufacturing</strong>, and <strong>ESG-driven sustainable solutions</strong>, demonstrating a strong track record in identifying new products and markets, leading complex technical projects, and driving financial growth and restructuring. He holds a <strong>Diplom-Ingenieur in Mechanical Engineering</strong> from Hochschule Konstanz HTWG, graduating with distinction.</p>

<img width="768" height="927" src="https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Profilbild-Alain-Frommelt-85.webp" alt="" decoding="async" srcset="https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Profilbild-Alain-Frommelt-85.webp 768w, https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Profilbild-Alain-Frommelt-85-249x300.webp 249w, https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Profilbild-Alain-Frommelt-85-414x500.webp 414w" sizes="(max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px" /> <h4>Let's Get in Touch</h4> Swiss Certified Treasurer (SCT) & DAS Bank Management <h2>Alain Yves Frommelt</h2> <p>CFO & Partner</p> <ul> <li> <h3>Department:</h3> <p>Management</p> </li> <li> <h3>Experience:</h3> <p>30+ Years</p> </li> <li> <h3>Email:</h3> <p>alain.frommelt@dif.solutions</p> </li> <li> <h3>Phone:</h3> <p>+41 78 328 88 80</p> </li> </ul> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.xing.com/profile/AlainYves_Frommelt" target=_blank> <svg aria-hidden="true" viewBox="0 0 384 512" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path d="M162.7 210c-1.8 3.3-25.2 44.4-70.1 123.5-4.9 8.3-10.8 12.5-17.7 12.5H9.8c-7.7 0-12.1-7.5-8.5-14.4l69-121.3c.2 0 .2-.1 0-.3l-43.9-75.6c-4.3-7.8.3-14.1 8.5-14.1H100c7.3 0 13.3 4.1 18 12.2l44.7 77.5zM382.6 46.1l-144 253v.3L330.2 466c3.9 7.1.2 14.1-8.5 14.1h-65.2c-7.6 0-13.6-4-18-12.2l-92.4-168.5c3.3-5.8 51.5-90.8 144.8-255.2 4.6-8.1 10.4-12.2 17.5-12.2h65.7c8 0 12.3 6.7 8.5 14.1z"></path></svg> </a> </li> </ul> <h3>Biography</h3> <p style="font-weight: 400;"><strong>Alain Frommelt is a highly experienced Treasury professional</strong> with extensive knowledge in Cash and Liquidity Management, Asset & Liability Management (ALM), Money Market, Foreign Exchange, Precious Metals and Fixed Income. He is known for his reliability, team orientation and strategic foresight. These qualities enable him to navigate complex challenges successfully and identify opportunities early.<br /><br />His work combines analytical precision with practical implementation - always with the goal of developing sustainable and efficient solutions. Thanks to his long-standing experience in international financial institutions, he has built a strong network and possesses a deep understanding of global financial markets.<br /><br />Since May 2025, Mr. Frommelt has been the <strong>Managing Partner - Owner of INVICTUS Consulting LLC</strong> in Eschen, where he provides consulting, coaching and advisory services in financial matters, primarily for companies and entrepreneurs.<br /><br />His career includes significant roles such as <strong>Senior ALM Advisor at Raiffeisen Switzerland</strong> (January 2021 – April 2025), where he advised Raiffeisen banks on ALM topics, analyzed balance sheets and prepared proposals for interest rate risk management. Prior to this, he was a <strong>Trader/Treasurer at Neue Bank AG</strong> (March 2018 – December 2020), responsible for all treasury and trading activities, including foreign exchange, precious metals and money market operations.<br /><br />Mr. Frommelt also served as <strong>Head Treasury & Trading at Union Bank AG</strong> (April 2014 – December 2015), where he led and successfully implemented the treasury concept. Before that, he was <strong>Treasurer - Head of FX, Fixed Income & Money Market at Centrum Bank AG</strong> (November 2008 – January 2014), responsible for bank balance sheets in Vaduz and Zurich and setting up ALM.<br /><br />His early career included roles at Dresdner Kleinwort Investment Bank and Credit Suisse, focusing on bank sales desks for foreign exchange, precious metals and money market products and at VP Bank AG in treasury functions.<br /><br />He holds a <strong>DAS in Bank Management</strong> and a <strong>CAS Swiss Certified Treasurer (SCT)</strong> from the University of Applied Sciences and Arts Lucerne. He is fluent in German and English, with basic to good knowledge of French.</p> <h3>Latest Companies & Positions</h3> <img src="https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/favicon.webp" alt="image" /> <h4> DIF, Die IDEENFABRIK AG</h4> CFO & Partner since 2025 <img src="https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/invictus-llc-98x98-1.png" alt="image" /> <h4> INVICTUS Consulting LLC</h4> Managing Partner - Owner since 2025 <img src="https://dif.solutions/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/r-swiss-96x96-1.png" alt="image" /> <h4> Raiffeisen Switzerland</h4> Senior Advisor 2021-2025 <h3>Professional Skills</h3> <p><b>Mr. Frommelt is our seasoned Treasury professional</b> with over 30 years of experience in International Financial Markets and with deep expertise in Cash and Liquidity Management, Asset & Liability Management (ALM), Money Market, Foreign Exchange, Precious Metals and Fixed Income.</p>