Joe Hinrichs is a seasoned executive with over 30 years’ experience in the global automotive sector. In the capacity of a leader, board member and strategic advisor, he has participated in the industry’s transformation into a mobility ecosystem. This background, paired with his abundant business expertise, make Joe a rich resource for guidance on leadership in the evolving mobility industry.
Professional Focus
More than 30 years’ experience in the automotive sector, including CEO and other senior executive roles as well as board memberships
Accomplished leadership advisor to public and privately held organizations at all stages of development as well as PE/VC firms, specializing in mobility, automotive, technology
Extensive international experience, having served in executive roles with oversight of operations in Asia Pacific/China, Europe, Latin America and Africa
Business Expertise
Strategic Advisor to microDrive, startup micro-influencer marketing company, and Operating Advisor for Assembly Ventures, venture capital group focused on mobility
Global President, Automotive at Ford Motor Company; prior roles over 19-year span included President, Global Operations; President, Americas; President, Asia Pacific & Africa; Chairman & CEO, Ford China; President & CEO, Ford Canada; Group Vice President, Global Manufacturing and Labor Affairs; VP, North America Manufacturing; Executive Director, Global Material Planning & Logistics
Partner and Senior Vice President at private equity firm Ryan Enterprises Group LLC
Plant Manager, GM Powertrain at General Motors; additional roles in engineering and manufacturing
Sector Expertise
Automotive
Technology
Manufacturing
Education & Certifications
MBA from Harvard Business School
Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (magna cum laude) from University of Dayton
Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters, Tiffin University
Honorary Doctor of Science and Business Administration, Cleary University
Affiliations & Awards
Board Chairman, Exide Technologies LLC, privately held battery company
Board Member, WaveSense LLC, privately owned early stage tech firm
Board Member, Rivian Automotive LLC (former)
Board Member, Ford Motor Credit Company (former)
Vice Chairman of the Board, Changan Ford Mazda Automobile (former)
JD Power Distinguished Service Award (2020)
Automotive News All Star, Top Global Operations Executive (2019)
Automotive News All Star, Manufacturing (2007)
Shanghai Pudong Business Person of the Year (2013)
Fortune Magazine Reader’s Choice Automotive Businessperson of the Year (2013)
Emeritus Trustee, University of Dayton (after serving nine-year term limit as Trustee)
Board Member, US-China Business Council (former)
Board Member, CEO Climate Dialogue (former)
Board Member, Climate Leadership Council (former)
Campaign Chair, United Way of Southeast Michigan (former)
Co-Chair, Motown Museum Legacy Campaign
Board Chairman, National Minority Supplier Development Council (former)
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