Cynthia Trudell, 47
Chairman and President, Saturn Corp., General Motors
Education: B.S., chemistry, Acadia University; Ph.D., physical chemistry, University of Windsor
First automotive job: Chemical Process Engineer, Ford Motor Co., 1979
Proudest achievement: Helping troubled organizations see their strengths and find paths for rejuvenation.
On being successful: "I have an intense belief that performance is achieved through empowered and enthusiastic employees who have a shared vision and that a truly successful leader is one who has the capacity for long-term visioning, the foundation for strategic thinking and the strength for tactical action."
On being a woman in the industry: "We provide an insight into capturing diverse markets and harnessing them through sensitivity, vision and employee loyalty."
Career highlights:
Other positions with General Motors include:
- 1997-99 President, IBC Vehicles (GM subsidiary), Luton, England
- 1995-97 Plant Manager, Wilmington (Del.) Assembly Center
- 1992-95 Site Manager, Engine and Foundry Operations, St. Catharines, Ontario
- 1990-92 Chief Engineer, Powertrain Advanced Manufacturing Systems
- 1989-90 Operations Manager, Willow Run (Mich.) Transmission
- 1987-89 Manufacturing Engineering Manager, Willow Run Transmission
- 1981-87 Senior Engineering Supervisor, Superintendent of Manufacturing, Windsor Transmission Plant