The Vice President of Thermal & HVAC Systems is a senior executive responsible for the overall leadership, strategic direction, and operational management of thermal management and HVAC engineering functions within the automotive business. This role drives innovation, integration, and execution of advanced thermal and HVAC solutions across all vehicle platforms—including ICE, EV, and HEV—ensuring industry-leading occupant comfort, energy efficiency, and regulatory compliance. The VP collaborates with product development, manufacturing, supply chain, and business leadership to deliver competitive, sustainable, and customer-focused climate systems.
Key Responsibilities:
Define and execute the corporate vision and strategy for thermal and HVAC systems engineering across multiple vehicle programs and platforms.
Lead and inspire large, multidisciplinary teams encompassing R&D, engineering, validation, and product support functions.
Drive innovation in thermal management, refrigeration, heat pump technologies, HVAC system integration, and controls to meet evolving market demands and sustainability goals.
Oversee program execution, budget management, resource allocation, and risk mitigation to ensure on-time, on-cost delivery of thermal and HVAC projects.
Collaborate with cross-functional leaders in powertrain, battery, vehicle integration, manufacturing, and quality to align thermal systems with overall vehicle objectives.
Establish strategic partnerships with suppliers, technology providers, and research institutions to leverage cutting-edge thermal solutions and maintain competitive advantage.
Champion regulatory compliance, safety standards, and environmental initiatives related to refrigerants, emissions, and energy efficiency.
Represent the company externally at industry forums, conferences, and with key customers, enhancing the company’s reputation as a leader in thermal and HVAC innovation.
Mentor and develop senior leaders, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, innovation, and operational excellence.
Provide regular executive reporting on program status, technical risks, market trends, and strategic opportunities.
Key Focus Areas:
Executive leadership of thermal and HVAC engineering functions
Strategic planning and innovation for automotive climate and thermal systems
Multidisciplinary team leadership and talent development
Cross-functional collaboration for vehicle integration and program execution
Supplier and technology partnerships to drive competitive advantage
Regulatory compliance and sustainability leadership
Budgeting, resource management, and risk mitigation
External representation and industry engagement
Qualifications & Skills:
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or related field required
Advanced degree (Master’s, MBA, or PhD) strongly preferred
Experience:
15+ years in automotive thermal management, HVAC, or related engineering leadership roles
Proven success leading large, complex engineering organizations and delivering high-impact vehicle programs
Strong track record of innovation, operational excellence, and strategic partnership development
Technical Skills:
Deep expertise in thermal systems, HVAC design, refrigeration, heat pumps, and system integration
Familiarity with automotive regulatory environment, refrigerant standards, and sustainability initiatives
Strong understanding of vehicle architecture, powertrain cooling, and cabin comfort technologies
Soft Skills:
Visionary executive leadership and strategic thinking
Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement
Strong decision-making and problem-solving under complex, dynamic conditions
Ability to inspire and grow diverse, high-performing teams