Andrica Nuechterlein
,51
Vice President, Global Sales - Electrical, Lear Corp.
What attracted you to the auto industry? I always lived in the Detroit area. I got an internship at GM, tried them for a couple of summers and really loved it.
First automotive job: Manufacturing engineer at General Motors Pontiac East assembly plant in 1986
Big break: Lear's seat contract for the full-size GM SUVs and trucks. We were doing all the pickups and SUVs. It was huge. I had sales and program management.
What is the major challenge you've faced in your career? The recession was a difficult time for everyone. We were all in it together. The pace at which we resolved issues was really quick. Issues that normally took months to resolve took days. I think we came out much stronger, with closer relations with our customers.
Who has had the biggest influence on your career? I would have to say both Frank Orsini [president of the electrical division] and Ray Scott [president of the seating division], who I first worked for in the Lear seating division.
Tell us about your family. I've been married 18 years to a wonderful husband. We have two stepchildren who are grown.
What's your favorite weekend activity? I love any type of exercise. We also have a cottage up north.