The Executive Director – Powertrain and Chassis Engineering is responsible for leading the strategic development, integration, and validation of all powertrain and chassis systems across current and future vehicle platforms. This role requires a seasoned engineering executive with a strong technical foundation in propulsion and structural systems, exceptional program delivery capabilities, and a track record of building and leading high-performing engineering organizations. The role plays a critical part in shaping vehicle performance, efficiency, and driving dynamics.
Define the long-term vision and technology roadmap for powertrain and chassis systems, including internal combustion, hybrid, and electric platforms.
Provide technical oversight for system architecture, component design, and vehicle-level integration.
Drive innovation and strategic sourcing of key technologies (e.g., e-axles, modular chassis, advanced suspension systems).
Lead end-to-end development of propulsion and chassis systems from concept through SOP (Start of Production).
Ensure delivery of high-performance, efficient, and regulatory-compliant systems aligned with cost, weight, and durability targets.
Oversee DVP&R, CAE, FMEA, validation, and homologation activities.
Build, mentor, and retain a world-class team of engineering leaders, technical specialists, and cross-functional collaborators.
Establish performance metrics and drive a culture of accountability, innovation, and engineering excellence.
Align engineering resources to support multiple concurrent product programs globally.
Work closely with manufacturing, product planning, purchasing, and quality teams to ensure manufacturability, supply chain readiness, and cost optimization.
Oversee technical engagement with key suppliers, R&D partners, and certification agencies.
Ensure full compliance with global safety, emissions, and technical regulations.
Drive root-cause analysis, warranty feedback loops, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Monitor KPIs across performance, reliability, efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
Powertrain Systems Development
(ICE, hybrid, EV propulsion, transmission, thermal systems, driveline)
Chassis Engineering & Vehicle Dynamics
(suspension, steering, braking, frame/subframe design, structural integration)
Vehicle Integration & Systems Engineering
(cross-domain integration of mechanical, electrical, and controls systems)
Leadership & Organizational Management
(building high-performance teams, mentoring leaders, aligning global resources)
Innovation & Technology Strategy
(lightweighting, NVH optimization, power density, modular platforms)
Compliance & Validation Oversight
(certification, emissions, durability, and system validation strategies)
Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related discipline.
15+ years of automotive engineering experience, including senior leadership roles.
Proven success in developing and launching powertrain and chassis systems in mass production vehicles.
Expertise in ICE, hybrid, and EV powertrain systems, and deep understanding of chassis and dynamics engineering.
Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary engineering organizations and deliver complex programs on time and within budget.
Strong knowledge of automotive standards, global regulatory requirements, and industry best practices.
Excellent strategic thinking, technical judgment, and executive communication skills.
Experience with electric and hybrid vehicle platforms
OEM or Tier-1 leadership roles in engineering or R&D
Global program execution and supplier management
Exposure to agile engineering or systems engineering methodologies