Jim Millan

About Jim Millan

Building the Future of Mobility: Executive with Startup Experience:I help automotive suppliers develop business outside of their traditional automotive business using proven 6 sigma business development methods required by venture capitalists. I\'m a results-oriented leader with a unique blend of executive experience in the automotive industry and a proven track record as a successful entrepreneur. My passion lies in accelerating innovation in the automotive space, particularly in the realm of autonomous vehicles and CASE technologies (Connected, Autonomous, Shared, and Electric).Quantifiable Results:• Secured over $3 billion in new contracts through strategic business development.• Increased profits by over $100 million through strategic negotiations and operational improvements.• Led the creation and launch of a new V2X business division, including developing its business plan, marketing strategy, and go-to-market approach.Leveraging Diverse Skills for Impact:For the past 10 years, I\'ve spearheaded critical initiatives at a Tier 1 automotive supplier. My expertise spans strategy, business development, and technology management. I led the successful wind-down of ICE products while simultaneously driving growth in CASE technologies. This strategic approach maximized profits and positioned the company for the future.Beyond the Boardroom:My entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond the traditional corporate world. For eleven years, I successfully owned and operated a restaurant. This experience honed my skills in strategic planning, operations management, and customer focus, all of which are transferable to any complex business environment. I also co-founded a startup in the wildfire technology space, actively mentor friends in the biotech and restaurant industries, and am passionate about giving back to my community.My Approach:I believe in a collaborative and holistic leadership style. I actively seek diverse perspectives to gain a complete understanding of challenges and opportunities. I then combine insightful vision with practical roadmaps and six sigma methods to achieve measurable success.Connect and Collaborate:I\'m constantly seeking opportunities to learn, connect, and collaborate with like-minded individuals who share a passion for shaping the future of mobility. If you\'re looking for an experienced and driven leader to lead your autonomous vehicle or CASE technology initiatives, I\'d love to connect!

Experience

1. Sales Manager - New Vector Technologies

   Garrett - Advancing Motion

   Dec 2024 — Present · Plymouth, MI, US

   I lead sales strategy and business development efforts for emerging technologies within the HVAC and automotive sectors, working closely with incubation and new vector growth teams to bring next-generation solutions to market.I specialize in developing and executing go-to-market strategies for innovative products that address the evolving needs of electric mobility, clean energy, and advanced thermal systems.Key Focus Areas-HVAC and E-Mobility Systems-Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Technologies-E-Turbos and EV Powertrains-Data Center & Industrial Thermal SolutionsProduct Portfolio Includes-Centrifugal compressors for:*EV Cooling *E-bus HVAC systems *Data center CRAC (Computer Room Air Conditioning) units *Battery electric storage systems *Transport refrigeration (reefer) units *EV charging infrastructure-Industrial air compressors-Hydrogen fuel cell compressors-Electrified powertrain components-E-TurbosMy role bridges the gap between engineering innovation and market execution, ensuring new technologies deliver measurable value to OEMs and Tier 1 clients across the automotive and HVAC ecosystems.

Education

• Oakland University

  Mechanical Engineering, Engineering, Economics

  2001 — 2004

Skills

• Brand Developement
• Conflict Resolution
• Brand Loyalty
• Gourmet
• Customer Retention
• Restaurants
• Employee Training
• Equipment Repair
• Equipment Maintenance
• Financial Analysis
• Menu Development
• Account Management
• Contract Negotiation
• Financial Accounting
• SEO
• Customer Satisfaction
• Restaurant Management
• Employee Relations
• Search Engine Ranking
• Problem Solving
• Product Launch
• Online Advertising
• Marketing Strategy
• Brand Awareness