At MBS 2015, President and COO Laurent Bresson announces upcoming move to Auburn Hills, discusses commitment to Michigan, job growth and the successes of foreign investment in the auto industry
Nexteer Automotive, a global leader in intuitive motion control, today announced that Auburn Hills, Michigan, will be the future home of its global headquarters. Nexteer President and COO Laurent Bresson delivered the news at the Center for Automotive Research’s Management Briefing Seminars in Traverse City, Michigan.
“The location of our global headquarters in Auburn Hills provides us with a platform for long-term success and demonstrates our commitment to the state of Michigan and its talented auto industry workforce,” said Bresson. “This stand-alone location will position us closer to our business partners, industry experts and will continue enhancing the Nexteer brand.”
The move to Auburn Hills will take place in the second quarter of 2016.
Bresson, a panelist on the “Global Strategies: The Maturing of China’s Auto Market” seminar, spoke about the benefits of being an independent, global company with a supportive controlling Chinese shareholder. Nexteer has grown to a global workforce of more than 12,000 — 5,000 of which are based in Michigan.
Since China’s AVIC Automotive became a controlling shareholder in 2010, Nexteer has added approximately 2,000 jobs in Michigan and invested more than $400 million in the state. The new headquarters will house approximately 150 employees who will be a combination of new and current Nexteer employees.
Since 2010, Nexteer has grown to be one of the top independent steering and driveline suppliers worldwide. It boasts a diverse and high quality customer base consisting of more than 50 OEMs including 10 of the top 12.
“We’re a big part, and I believe the best example, of Chinese investment in the North American auto industry,” said Bresson. “We are guided by strong global leaders and fully supported by our largest shareholder. This commitment by our Chinese ownership and management combined with the talented people who know the history and DNA of the company, continues to nurture new innovation and growth.”
Investment in R&D and product diversification has led to a $9 billion business backlog, enabling future security. Nexteer’s overall revenue increased 25 percent in 2014; with Chinese revenue increasing approximately 79 percent as the company continued its focus on emerging markets.
