Daniel Kirk

Background

About Daniel Kirk

I am a high-energy and results-driven automotive leader with a strong track record of accomplishments in automotive engineering. My expertise includes product development and project management, implementation, reporting, design/release, and production execution. I have experience in all areas of vehicle integration and development, managing prototype and pre-series vehicle builds, quality control, and testing to bring a vehicle to production launch. Additionally, I possess excellent leadership skills and the ability to lead teams to achieve the goals and objectives in vehicle programs, propulsion systems, and product developments. Adept at using analytical and development tools, program management, and cross-functional teams to deliver world-class products and the highest customer satisfaction. Highlights/Experiences; • Customer Focus: Vehicle Integration and development responsible for the voice of the customer for the Chrysler 300/Dodge Charger. Including new systems and features (rear park assist, lane depart warning, ADAS, rotary shift system, LED fog lamps, heated/cooled cupholders, selectable steering assist, etc.) • Program Management: Successfully led the project plan, approval, and integration of the all-new Hurricane I6 SO/HO engine program into the Grand Wagoneer / Wagoneer vehicles. • Budget Management: Developed the processes to achieve a comprehensive bottoms-up propulsion system annual budget (>$500M.) Reconciled program timing and budget allocation to align to (>$50M) reduction in planned expenditures. • Professional interface to the public: Presented the Chrysler 300 product introduction to over 250 members of the South Korean press in Seoul, South Korea. • International Experience: Developed the export Chrysler 300 with the Mercedes Benz team. • Design and Release: ESC Functional Specialist, Brake System Release Engineer responsible for the Large car (300/Charger/Challenger) and Midsize SUV (Grand Cherokee) Brake and ESC system specifications, requirements, prototypes, and production launch. • Vehicle Systems: Vehicle Integration Responsible for the Waymo Pacifica PHEV autonomous vehicle. • Voice of the customer: Led customer clinics in vehicle egress/ingress, door opening, warning chimes, and visibility. Face-to-face customer clinics in California, Arizona, Texas, and Michigan. • Drive for results: Winner of the JD Power Appeal Award for Large Car vehicles. • Technology: Led virtual engineering CAE program team to eliminate A/B sample development. • People: Continuing education lead for Propulsion Systems, PMO Office.