Henry Berkemeier

About Henry Berkemeier

Business builder with a track record of launching and scaling ventures by leveraging engineering background, financial expertise, and a passion for innovation—I’m a builder at heart - with a track record of turning ideas into real, revenue-generating businesses and leading cross-functional efforts that drive growth. Early in my career, I co-founded a startup, gaining hands-on experience across the business lifecycle - from shaping the vision and financial model to launching a product and securing paying customers.My background in industrial engineering helps me build systems that scale. It’s been my edge in operations - streamlining processes, improving forecasting, and leading teams with a focus on efficiency and results.At Ford, I’ve led data-driven initiatives across multiple business units - including GDI & A, Ford Pro, and Ford Credit - where I improved data quality, accessibility, and forecasting to support smarter decisions at scale. I also led two company-wide innovation efforts through the Catalyst program and now train teams across Ford in design thinking.While earning my MBA at Chicago Booth, I deepened my operational and investment acumen - conducting due diligence on a biotech startup, leading a fintech concept to the semifinals of the New Venture Challenge, and sourcing $1.5–$4M EBITDA acquisition targets for a search fund entrepreneur.Currently, I’m helping launch and grow new ventures within Ford Racing. I’m energized by the opportunity to lead small teams, take ownership of outcomes, and scale high-quality businesses with lasting impact.

Experience

1. Ford Racing - Business Development & Finance Associate

   Ford Motor Company

   Nov 2024 — Present

   Support development of business models, growth strategies, and financial forecasts that enable path to scaling customer driving experiences (e.g. Bronco Off-Roadeo, Bronco Off-Road Adventures) and customer racing series (e.g. Mustang Cup, Mustang Challenge)Lead financial forecasting efforts for upcoming high-performance vehicle programs, ensuring alignment with broader product and marketing strategies.

Education

• The University of Chicago Booth School of Business

  Master of Business Administration (MBA), Strategic Management, Finance, Entrepreneurship

• Purdue University

  Bachelor of Science, Industrial Engineering