Mary Barra: Never Stop Learning

Mary Barra serves as the CEO and chairman of General Motors, a role she has held since 2014, making her the first woman to lead one of the major U.S. automakers. Before becoming CEO, she held various senior positions at GM, including Executive Vice President of Worldwide Business Development, Procurement, and Supply Chain. Under her leadership, GM has made significant strides in the electric vehicle sector, highlighted by the introduction of the Chevrolet Bolt EV, featuring a high-performance battery rivaling that of the Tesla Model 3. Barra's influence extends beyond GM; she was appointed to the Disney board of directors in 2017, supported by Robert Iger. Committed to innovation, she has directed substantial investments towards electric vehicles and autonomous driving technologies, with GM aiming to produce 1 million EVs by the end of 2025. Barra's career at GM began in 1980 through their co-op program, initially working with Pontiac Motors. 

Mary Barra & General Motors

Mary Barra's leadership at General Motors is characterized by a robust strategy aimed at solidifying GM's presence in the rapidly evolving automotive landscape. Under her direction, GM has embarked on an ambitious plan to dominate the electric vehicle market, setting a target of producing 1 million EVs by 2025. This initiative underscores Barra's commitment to sustainability and innovation, positioning GM as a frontrunner in the transition to cleaner transportation solutions. Key to GM's electrification efforts is the Chevrolet Bolt EV, a pioneering model known for its impressive battery performance, which compares favorably with industry leaders like Tesla. Beyond electric vehicles, Barra has championed advancements in autonomous driving technology, paving the way for GM to remain at the forefront of automotive innovation. Her strategic vision extends beyond product development; Barra's leadership also emphasizes corporate responsibility and inclusivity, fostering a culture of innovation and accountability within GM. As CEO and chairman, Mary Barra continues to navigate GM through an era of profound change, poised to redefine the future of transportation through cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices.

Business Quote

“The most important thing is to never stop learning and growing” -Mary Barra

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Forward Thinker: Mary Barra

Mary Barra places significant emphasis on the critical business lesson of continuous adaptation and innovation as fundamental to sustained success in today's competitive landscape. She advocates for organizations, like General Motors, to cultivate a culture that embraces change and prioritizes innovation as a strategic imperative. Barra's leadership at GM has been marked by bold moves into emerging technologies such as electric vehicles and autonomous driving, positioning the company at the forefront of automotive innovation. She believes that businesses must not only respond to current market demands but also anticipate future trends and consumer needs. By fostering a mindset of agility and forward-thinking, Barra ensures that GM remains resilient and adaptable in navigating industry disruptions and economic challenges. This approach not only drives product innovation but also enhances operational efficiency and customer satisfaction, ultimately contributing to GM's long-term growth and leadership in the global automotive sector.

Book Recommendation

As Barra states, never stop learning, read Raise Your Innovation IQ written by Leena Patel to foster an innovative mindset throughout your career. 

Podcast Spotlight

Stay tuned for our upcoming podcast, featured on www.enterprisehoney.com and hosted by Chief Executive Officer of Aurio, Zach Chirico! 

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