Derrick D. Parson
Regional Plant Director Executive for Defiance Castings & Kokomo Electronic Assembly Complexes
- Role
- Regional Plant Director Executive at General Motors
- Location
- Defiance, OH, US
- LinkedIn followers
- 500 followers
About Derrick D. Parson
Results-driven, highly innovative manufacturing executive with 20+ years of global experience leading complex operations across vehicle, powertrain, semiconductor, and component environments. I’m known for delivering measurable improvements in productivity, quality, and cost while building inclusive, high-performing teams that align with enterprise strategy.Certified Six Sigma Master Black Belt (University of Michigan Operational Excellence program) with deep expertise in Operational Excellence, Lean, DMAIC, and complexity/proliferation optimization.Broad end-to-end manufacturing background spanning vehicle assembly, launch, and integration; engines, castings, electrification, and transmissions; semiconductor fabrication, assembly, and test; mask manufacturing; electronic components; and EV battery assembly.Proven leader in advanced automation, including launch of the ARC (Autonomous Robot Center) to enhance safety, productivity, and flexibility on the shop floor.Robust global purchasing experience across electrical systems (infotainment, clusters, switches, semiconductors, displays) and complex software purchasing and contracting for infotainment and digital features.Core strengths in strategy development, deployment, and disciplined execution; cross-functional team building, coaching, and talent development; and launching new operations, technologies, and capabilities that enable long-term growth.Passionate about transforming operations, developing people, and turning challenging objectives into sustainable, scalable results.
Experience
Regional Plant Director Executive
Sep 2024 — Present · Defiance, IN, US
Leading Defiance Global Propulsion aluminum foundry & machining centers across a 433-acre complex in Ohio *Leading Kokomo Components Electronics Assembly complex across a 587-acre complex in Indiana.*2024 & 2025 Global Manufacturing Award recipient for Best Operational Excellence Program & Leadership, recognizing sustained improvements in performance and culture.*2024 Indiana Manufacturing Hall of Fame inductee, honoring leadership impact on regional manufacturing, innovation, and workforce development.*Global Chair & President of the General Motors African Ancestry Network (employee resource group), advancing talent development across the enterprise.*Developing Strategic initiatives using Operational Excellence to establish benchmark Safety, Quality, & Productivity Performance.*Strengthened organizational engagement and inclusion through intentional culture transformation, resulting in higher participation, improved morale, and stronger cross-functional collaboration.*Provide strong launch leadership for next-generation global propulsion products, ensuring flawless execution, robust quality, and on-time delivery to support GM’s product and technology roadmap.
Education
University of Michigan - Stephen M. Ross School of Business
Executive Education Session, Leading with Impact
Purdue University
Bachelor of science, Organizational leadership and supervision
University of Michigan
Master Black Belt, Operational Excellence
University of Michigan
Lean Six Sigma Black Belt, Operational Excellence
Indiana Wesleyan University
Masters of Management, Management
Harvard Business School
Strategic Thinking and Execution
2013 — 2013
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