Director – Vehicle Dynamics and Chassis

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Director – Vehicle Dynamics and Chassis to lead the design, development, and integration of chassis systems and vehicle dynamics across all vehicle platforms. This role will be responsible for delivering world-class ride, handling, comfort, and stability while ensuring structural performance, durability, and compliance with safety and regulatory requirements. The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise with strong leadership and cross-functional collaboration.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Technical Leadership

• Own the architecture, design, and integration of chassis systems: suspension, steering, braking, subframes, axles, and wheels/tires.

• Drive the vehicle dynamics strategy for ride quality, handling, steering feel, stability, and NVH performance.

• Oversee simulation, modeling, and physical testing to validate chassis and dynamics performance.

2. Program Management

• Lead end-to-end execution of chassis and dynamics deliverables across concept, development, and production stages.

• Collaborate with vehicle integration, powertrain, controls, and body engineering teams to ensure system compatibility.

• Ensure alignment with cost, weight, and performance targets.

3. Testing and Validation

• Define DVP&R plans for chassis systems and dynamics performance metrics.

• Oversee vehicle-level testing, including proving ground and real-world validation for comfort, safety, and durability.

• Interpret test data, guide tuning activities, and drive issue resolution.

4. Team Leadership and Development

• Build and lead a team of vehicle dynamics engineers, chassis designers, CAE specialists, and test engineers.

• Foster a culture of technical excellence, innovation, and accountability.

• Provide mentorship and skills development for high-potential engineering talent.

5. Cross-Functional & Supplier Collaboration

• Interface with suppliers and Tier-1 partners for sourcing and co-development of chassis systems and components.

• Ensure manufacturability and assembly feasibility in collaboration with manufacturing and quality teams.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical, Automotive, or Vehicle Engineering.

• 12+ years of experience in chassis design and vehicle dynamics, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or technical management role.

• Proven experience in suspension geometry, ride and handling tuning, steering systems, and brake system integration.

• Familiarity with simulation tools (e.g., ADAMS, CarSim, MATLAB), CAE tools, and vehicle testing methodologies.

• Experience in setting and achieving vehicle dynamics targets for commercial, passenger, or electric vehicles.

• Strong understanding of manufacturing, DFM, DFMEA, and regulatory standards.

Key Focus Areas:

• Chassis Systems Design (Suspension, Steering, Braking, Subframes, Tires)

• Vehicle Dynamics Optimization (Ride, Handling, NVH, Stability)

• Simulation, Modeling, and Physical Validation

• Program Delivery from Concept to Production

• Cross-Functional Engineering and Supplier Collaboration

• Leadership in Innovation, Lightweighting, and Performance Engineering

Preferred Backgrounds:

• Automotive OEMs or Tier-1 chassis suppliers

• Performance vehicle or motorsports engineering

• Electric Vehicle platforms (EV-specific suspension and dynamics)

• Off-highway, heavy-duty, or commercial vehicle experience