Director, Corporate Planning & Strategy (Automotive Industry)

About the role

Detroit Engineered Products (DEP) — Farmington, Michigan

Serves as a key strategic partner to the President in managing regional and corporate direction and operational execution. This role is responsible for any corporate events including planning long-term strategies, ensuring financial discipline and coordinating cross-functional initiatives as the primary liaison between NA region and GHQ.

Responsibilities

• Corporate Strategy & Business Planning: Manage the development of the mid- and long-term strategy of North America region with Finance director. Conduct financial and market analyses to assess opportunities and challenges in the US market. Support corporate development initiatives, including potential partnerships, restructuring, and M&A evaluations.
• Strategic Alignment with GHQ: Act as the principal conduit between GHQ and the leadership team in North America region, ensuring clear communication of corporate policies, expectations, and strategic priorities. Translate GHQ directives into local strategies and operational action plans. Provide regular updates to GHQ regarding business performance, risks, and strategic initiatives, ensuring transparency and consistency.
• Financial Leadership & Governance: Work closely with Finance director/auditor/consultants for financial related matters. Ensure financial controls, reporting accuracy, and budget settings meet GHQs standards. Review major investments, cost structures, and resource allocation to ensure alignment with global financial expectations.
• President Support & Executive Decision-Making: Serve as the strategic advisor, providing data-driven insights and recommendations. Prepare board-level and GHQ-facing materials, including strategic proposals, business cases, and performance reports.
• Cross-Functional Leadership & Operational Execution: Coordinate key projects across departments to ensure timely execution of strategies derived from both local needs and GHQ mandates. Facilitate alignment between North America region and GHQ counterparts, resolving misalignments or gaps in expectations. Drive cross-border collaboration, promoting mutual understanding of business goals and constraints.
• Organizational Leadership & Change Management: Support organizational development and transformation initiatives, especially those directed or influenced by GHQ. Lead teams or project managers to ensure strategic initiatives are effectively implemented. Develop talent and strengthen organizational capabilities in strategy, finance, and operational excellence.

Requirements

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Basic knowledge of Finance systems
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Project management skills

Minimum Requirements of Education, Training, Experience:

• Bachelors Degree, Marketing or Finance or related degree