Frédéric Lissalde, the President and CEO of BorgWarner Inc., stands as a paragon of visionary leadership in the automotive sector. Since assuming office in August 2018, he has steered the company towards new heights of innovation and success, building on a remarkable career that spans continents and encompasses a wealth of experience.
Born on July 17, 1967, in the vibrant city of Paris, Lissalde's journey into the automotive world was destined for greatness. Raised in Tours, he cultivated a deep appreciation for precision and engineering from a young age. This early fascination with the mechanics of the world around him laid the foundation for a career that would redefine the industry.
With an illustrious academic background, he pursued excellence in engineering and business administration. He earned a Master of Engineering from ENSAM-Paris, equipping him with the technical acumen needed to navigate the complexities of the automotive realm. Complementing this, he secured an MBA from HEC Paris, a testament to his commitment to holistic leadership.
Lissalde's professional journey commenced at esteemed automotive giants Valeo and ZF Friedrichshafen AG. From the UK to Japan and France, he honed his skills in program management, engineering, operations, and sales. This global exposure not only broadened his horizons but also instilled in him a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and its invaluable role in fostering innovation.
In 2000, he embarked on his transformative journey with BorgWarner. Over the years, he ascended through the ranks, holding pivotal positions that included President and General Manager of BorgWarner Turbo Systems, the company's flagship business. His leadership was instrumental in propelling the division to unprecedented heights.
Beyond his corporate endeavors, Lissalde is a luminary in the field of executive education. He undertook executive courses at prestigious institutions such as INSEAD, Harvard, and MIT, a testament to his unwavering commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
In recognition of his profound contributions to the international automotive sector, he was honored with the Nessim Habif Prize in March 2023. This accolade stands as a testament to his unwavering dedication to innovation, growth, and excellence.
Outside the boardroom, he is a devoted family man with a loving spouse and three children. His personal values of integrity, empathy, and perseverance infuse his professional life, creating a leader who not only envisions a brighter future for the automotive industry but also nurtures a culture of inclusivity and diversity.
As a member of the Business Roundtable and CEO of Action for Diversity and Inclusion, he champions values that extend beyond the bottom line. His strategic direction, business acumen, and global integration expertise have not only propelled BorgWarner to unprecedented success but also set a paradigm for leadership in the automotive world.
Lissalde's journey from the cobbled streets of Paris to the boardrooms of global automotive powerhouses is a testament to the transformative power of vision, determination, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His legacy is etched in the annals of the automotive industry, inspiring generations of leaders to come.