Welcome to

About Us

Innovative Consultancy for Engineering, Manufacturing, Purchasing and Supply Chain Solutions

At ZKK Consulting Services, we bring together the unrivaled expertise of Dr. Joseph Elias Khoury and Mr. Abe Zakhem to help businesses transform their operations, enhance product development cycle, and navigate the complexities of global sourcing and supply chain. Our consultancy leverages decades of combined experience, cutting-edge technological insights, and proven methodologies to drive sustainable growth and improved EBIT.

Dr. Khoury is a renowned expert in engineering, lean manufacturing, strategic leadership, and negotiation, with over 30 years of experience in the global manufacturing, sales, and engineering sectors. Having worked with major multinational companies, including Methode Electronics Inc., Dr. Khoury has a proven track record

Dr. Joseph Elias Khoury

Mr. Abe Zakhem

Mr. Ibrahim (Abe) Zakhem, a seasoned senior executive, brings over 35 years of expertise in Automotive Global Product Development, Global Purchasing and Sourcing, Data Analytics, and the establishment of successful global teams. With a master’s and bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Abe’s career

in process optimization, value engineering, and plant establishment. In addition to his technical expertise, Dr. Khoury has consistently demonstrated exceptional negotiation skills that have played a crucial role in securing high-value contracts, forging successful partnerships, and navigating complex business agreements.

His ability to manage cross-functional teams, multicultural teams, build consensus, and secure favorable outcomes for his clients / partners has been a cornerstone of his career.

Dr. Khoury has developed several patents related to manufacturing processes, value engineering, and quality assurance. His innovative approach led to groundbreaking advancements in production efficiency and product quality. His published work, including "Manufacturing vs Corruption: Who Wins?", highlights his commitment to ethical and transparent practices in the manufacturing industry.

is distinguished by his ability to lead innovative technologies, foster international joint ventures, and execute compelling global strategies that deliver results.

A visionary leader, Abe has demonstrated exceptional skill in navigating complex challenges, developing high-performing teams, and driving operational excellence. His leadership style is characterized by earned confidence, collaboration, and a relentless focus on innovation and growth.

Throughout his extensive career at General Motors, Abe spearheaded numerous strategic initiatives, delivering measurable results across multiple continents.

Known for his exceptional problem-solving capabilities and advanced analytical mindset, he consistently integrated people, processes, and technology to transform organizational operations and exceed business objectives.

Our Expertise

Dr. Khoury and Mr. Zakhem collaborate to provide comprehensive, tailored solutions that address the unique challenges of each business. From driving lean manufacturing transformations to optimizing global sourcing and complex supply chains, we offer strategic insights and actionable recommendations designed to deliver measurable results. With a strong focus on multilingual and cross-cultural leadership, Dr. Khoury and Mr. Zakhem, fluent in English, French, German, and Arabic, have adeptly navigated the complexities of international operations, with extensive experience across the Americas, Europe, and Asia.

Lean Manufacturing & Operational Excellence

Dr. Khoury’s profound expertise in Lean Manufacturing has helped companies across industries eliminate waste, improve operational efficiency, and boost profitability.

Abe Zakhem complements this by focusing on supply chain-specific Lean strategies, enhancing material flow and ensuring that production remains efficient and cost-effective across the value chain.

Process Optimization & Continuous Improvement

Dr. Khoury’s leadership in process optimization has helped companies reduce lead times, cut production costs, and improve quality. Abe Zakhem brings a supply chain-focused approach, ensuring that your entire operation, from procurement to delivery, is streamlined for maximum efficiency.

Supply Chain & Risk Management

With Mr. Zakhem’s background in GM’s global purchasing and supply chain operations, his expertise ensures your business is prepared for risks and disruptions, whether in vendor relations or logistics management.
Dr. Khoury integrates supply chain practices with operational goals, ensuring a more holistic approach to manufacturing and distribution.

Value Engineering & Product Development

Dr. Khoury’s vast experience in value engineering helps clients optimize their product designs, reduce costs, and enhance product competitiveness. Abe Zakhem ensures that the value engineering process flows seamlessly into the supply chain, ensuring cost reductions and operational efficiency from the design stage through production.

Negotiation & Contract Management

Dr. Khoury and Mr. Zakhem both demonstrated exceptional negotiation skills, helping businesses secure favorable terms in multi-million- and billion-dollar contracts, from supply agreements to partnership deals. Their approach combines thorough market analysis, tactical negotiation strategies, and a focus on building long-term relationships. Both have proven their ability to navigate complex cross-cultural negotiations, particularly with international stakeholders, ensuring that all parties’ interests are respected and protected.

Case Studies & Testimonials

Under Dr. Khoury’s guidance, a leading electronics company implemented Lean Manufacturing principles that resulted in a 25% reduction in production costs and a 30% improvement in production efficiency.

Dr. Khoury successfully led negotiations with a global supplier for a multi-million-dollar contract that resulted in favorable terms for the client. His expertise in cross-cultural negotiation and deep understanding of manufacturing processes ensured both cost reduction and long-term strategic benefit for the client.

Mr. Zakhem championed data-driven decision-making at GM, leading initiatives that reduced material costs, optimized vendor tooling spending, and improved engineering processes. His development of advanced tools enhanced operational efficiency and provided executives with the insights needed for strategic decisions.

Mr. Zakhem led GM’s $20 billion purchasing portfolio in China, achieving over $3.5 billion in savings through strategic sourcing, industrialization, and localization. His material cost reduction initiatives saved GM joint venture, billions over four years by optimizing the Bill of Materials (BOM), eliminating waste, and significantly improving EBIT and profitability.

Case Study 1

Case Study 2

Case Study 3

Case Study 4

High-Stakes Negotiation for Multi-Million Dollar Contracts

Lean Manufacturing Transformation for a Global Electronics Company

Data Analytics & Decision-Making

Global Purchasing, Supply Chain Leadership & Cost Optimization

Our Approach

We provide customized solutions designed specifically for your business needs. Our collaborative approach combines Dr. Khoury’s cutting-edge engineering expertise and negotiation skills with Mr. Zakhem’s deep understanding of global purchasing and supply chain. Whether it’s through Lean Manufacturing, Process Optimization, Negotiation, Data Analytics, or Technology Integration, we tailor our services to drive sustainable improvements for your operations.

Publications

Evaluation of Forecasting and Inventory Control in Multi-product Manufacturing Systems Operating under Erratic Demand

A Case Study in the Automotive Domain

Published by: Ethan Publishing

Area of Focus: Forecasting and inventory control in multi-product manufacturing systems.

Mental Model Moderation, Modification, and Managing (5M) Framework

A Pilot Case Study on Supply Chain Decision Making

Submitted Manuscript (MS-14-01022)

Co-authored with: Wissam El Hachem, Ramy Harik

Area of Focus: Supply chain decision-making and mental model frameworks.

A Comparison of Kanban-Like Control Strategies in a Multi-Product Manufacturing System under Erratic Demand

Published by: Enterprise Process Research Centre, Sch. of Mechanical & Manufacturing Engineering, Dublin City University

Area of Focus: Control strategies in multi-product manufacturing systems with erratic demand.

Device for Ventilating a Space and Corresponding Method

Abstract: A device and corresponding method for ventilating space is provided. The device includes an air conditioning system that is adapted for recirculating conditioning and/or fresh air to be used for the ventilation of space. The device also includes at least one air treatment means adapted for exposing the recirculated and/or fresh air to one or more of UVC, ozone and/or atomized detergents. Relative to an air stream, the air treatment means is positioned prior to the air conditioning system receiving the recirculated and/or fresh air, and/or prior to the air conditioning system releasing the air into space.

Publication number: 20220221173; Publication date: July 14, 2022; Inventor: Joseph Elias Khoury

Transparent Polymer with Glass-Like Properties

Abstract: A method for manufacturing transparent polymer with glass-like properties involves depositing silica glass molecules on a substrate to be coated through a chemical vapor deposition process prior to completing a full curing process. The chemical vapor deposition process is performed within a vacuum or ‘quasi’ vacuum atmosphere, which is held at a temperature below 30° C. Upon completion of the chemical vapor deposition process, curing the coated substrate a second time at a temperature exceeding 150° C. A transparent polymer may be manufactured according to the method described.

Publication number: 20190071770; Publication date: March 7, 2019; Inventors: Alexander Galea, Joseph Elias Khoury

Contact Us

Ready to enhance your operations, innovate your products, and optimize your supply chain? Contact ZZK, Consultancy Services, today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Joseph Elias Khoury and Abe Zakhem.

Phone: +1(248) 918 0856

Email: abe.zakhem@zkkconsultancy.com

Location: 3688 Acorn Drive, Troy, Michigan 48083

Social Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abe-zakhem-a3ab0016/

Mr. Abe Zakhem

Dr. Joseph Khoury

Phone: +49 172 666 1888

Email: joseph.khoury@zkkconsultancy.com

Location: AM Stein 13, in 55457, Gensingen, Germany

Social Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-elias-khoury-428014339/