100 Leading Women In The North American Auto Industry

Colleen Haley, 38

President, Ford Business Unit, Yazaki Corporation

Education: B.S., psychology, Michigan State University; M.S., labor and industrial relations, Michigan State University

First automotive job: Human resources manager at Alcoa Fujikura Ltd. in Farmington Hills, Mich., in 1995

Career highlights
  • 2004-05 Vice president, purchasing and quality, Yazaki North America
  • 2002-04 Vice president, purchasing, Yazaki North America
  • 2000-02 Vice president, human resources and general affairs, Yazaki North America
  • 1998-2000 General manager, AFL Integrated Technologies, Alcoa Fujikura Ltd., Farmington Hills, Mich.

Biggest mistake and what you learned: "Hesitating to take a risk. You have to just do it."

Proudest achievement: "Achieving the position I have today while creating a healthy family with my husband."

On being successful: "It's important to be comfortable with how you are getting there. That means getting results but doing it in a positive way."

What about the auto industry surprised you: "That it is really a small community."

What women need to know for success in the auto industry: "I have often been the only woman in the room. So you have to be comfortable with yourself."

What you do to relax: "I spend time with my family and friends, and I run."