James Soo

Background

About James Soo

Autonomous Vehicle Technology & Road Safety Advocate | Strategy, Policy & Growth Leader | Board Director Senior automotive technology executive with over 25 years of experience across government, industry and regulatory bodies - integrating engineering, public policy and emerging vehicle technologies to shape the future of safe and sustainable transport. My career has been about turning complex challenges into executable strategies that deliver both business value and public impact. As a Board Member of ANCAP and the Society of Automotive Engineers Australasia, I’m passionate about driving collaboration between governments, industry, and communities to ensure technology adoption—such as autonomous vehicles—is safe, effective, and in the public interest. Executive Leadership Highlights: Established an AV-startup's Australian presence - leading market entry, growth strategy, stakeholder engagement and strategic partnerships with regulators, transport agencies and industry leaders. Directed commercial and operational strategy to scale new technology solutions, balancing innovation with compliance, safety and market readiness. Led cross-functional global teams across the US, Europe, China, Korea and Australia to deliver next-generation vehicle programs aligned with safety, environmental, and performance goals. Influenced national and international vehicle safety policy, driving reforms that shaped regulatory frameworks and measurable road safety outcomes. Experienced Board Director with ANCAP and the Society of Automotive Engineers Australasia, contributing to governance, corporate strategy and advancing future-focused standards development. Core Capabilities General Management & Market Growth | Business Development & Partnerships | P&L and Operational Leadership | Emerging Mobility & Autonomous Technology | Policy, Regulatory & Government Engagement | Vehicle Safety & Standards | Road Safety Leadership | Board Governance | Global Engineering & Program Delivery | Continuous Improvement (Six Sigma Black Belt) I thrive in environments where technology, regulation and strategy intersect - building teams, partnerships, and governance structures that accelerate innovation while strengthening safety, trust and long-term growth.