Education: B.A., economics, Michigan State University; M.B.A., finance, Wayne State University

First automotive job: Financial Analyst, Sales and Marketing, Chrysler Corp., 1972

Proudest achievement: "I'm most proud of being named Senior Vice President, CIO for DaimlerChrysler and creating a global IT organization for this company."

On being successful: "There are lots of key elements that are important in becoming a successful leader. First you need to constantly push yourself and strive for the impossible - in other words be a visionary. Secondly, you need to support and reward your staff. Third, you need to network with peers and superiors. And last but not least, you need to always challenge yourself and come up with better ways to do things."

On being a woman in the industry: "It has been an absolutely wonderful experience. I've been in the industry for 28 years. I was one of the pioneers. Back then you'd get 'gee ... young ladies shouldn't be in this industry.' It was male oriented. I've grown so much, learned so much, and I wouldn't change a thing."

Career highlights:

Other positions at DaimlerChrysler (formerly Chrysler Corp.) include:

• 1993-98 Executive Director, Information Services
• 1993 Finance Director, Product Development and Jeep/Truck Operations
• 1991-93 Director, Corporate Financial Analysis
• 1973-90 Manager, various finance positions