Interview_Rochester-Hills_Dr-Donald-R-James

Dr. Donald R. James has led Solero for three years, bringing a bold vision to life. With an MBA and DBA from LTU, he’s passionate about giving back, sharing his leadership journey with students, and championing hands-on leadership. You’ll often find him visiting plants worldwide, chatting with employees on the production floor, and gathering ideas firsthand. His servant leadership style, rooted in work-life integration, ensures Solero’s growth is as people-focused as it is strategic.

Could you share more about Solero Technologies’ global ambitions?

From our HQ here in Rochester Hills, we’re steering a global team toward leadership in active suspension, thermal management for BEVs, smart actuation, and engine and transmission solutions. Our vision is clear: to grow through organic expansion and strategic acquisitions across North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific, advancing the automotive industry’s shift to electrification and sustainability.

How does Solero’s growth benefit its customers?

For us, growth means combining global expertise with local insights to deliver innovative solutions that meet our customers’ specific needs. Each of our plants worldwide brings unique capabilities, enabling us to offer a diverse portfolio of products for the automotive sector and support the transition to electric vehicles.

What sets Solero apart from its competitors?

Our technical expertise, system knowledge, and focus on tailored solutions set us apart. We don’t just supply components—we ensure they integrate seamlessly and perform optimally within entire systems. From boosting motor efficiency to enabling centralized ECU systems, our innovations tackle the opportunities in mobility, positioning us as a global tier-one supplier customers can trust.

What opportunities do you see in the Automotive sector?

Electrification and sustainability are unlocking exciting opportunities. We’re driving advancements in active suspension for smoother rides, faster battery cooling for electric motors, and smart actuation for improved response times. From sensor-cleaning technology for autonomous driving to multi-speed EV transmissions, we stay ahead of the curve.

How does Solero ensure the highest safety and quality standards?

“Safety first, quality always” is our mantra. Across our global facilities, including VPP Star-rated sites, we adhere to rigorous certifications that build customer trust and ensure compliance everywhere we operate.

How do you encourage a culture of innovation and collaboration?

We live our core values—integrity, respect, empowerment, collaboration, and success. By accelerating growth, driving continuous improvement, and embracing transformation, we create an environment where innovation thrives. The ALL-IN culture reinforces this: everyone working together, fully committed to shared goals and meaningful change.

How would you describe your leadership philosophy?

Authentic servant leadership. My job as a CEO is to serve the employee. That means I try my best to make sure the employee experience is there, that folks are fully engaged and that I’m visible and approachable. I travel between our sites across the globe, meeting with employees at all levels, including those on the production floor. I get so many great ideas from the employees who are actually doing the job every day. It’s not about rank or title. It’s just about us working together, side by side, to get the work done.

How do you balance work and life as a leader?

For me, it’s about work-life integration. Employees are a vital part of my life, just as I am of theirs. I bring the same authenticity to work as I do at home, ensuring that balance is achieved through mutual respect and understanding.

What’s your approach to giving back to the community?

I believe the most precious thing we can give is our time. Returning to LTU to mentor students and share my leadership principles is my way of inspiring the next generation. I’ve walked in their shoes, and I want them to know that achieving their dreams is possible.

What’s next for Solero?

We’re committed to becoming a top-three global player in the mobility controls sector. By investing in sustainable product development and maintaining a focus on people, partnerships, and performance, we’re shaping a future where innovation and collaboration lead the way.