Detroit, Michigan – March 15, 2022 – Solero Technologies, a leading global supplier of
transmission solenoids, engine solenoids, stop-start accumulators, and hydraulic control
modules, has hired Dr. Donald R. James as the company’s new CEO. Dr. James will oversee
Solero Technologies’ sales and engineering center in Detroit, as well as manufacturing
operations in Water Valley, Mississippi. Additionally, he will be responsible for the strategic
direction of the company and ensuring long-term profitable growth. Don will be based in
Michigan with the team in Detroit.
Solero Technologies, formerly BorgWarner North American Controls, was acquired by Atar
Capital in December 2021. Ramzi Hermiz, a transformational automotive industry leader, served
as interim CEO since that time and will continue with the company as a Board Director.
“Don’s years of success in business and technology along with his extensive automotive
industry experience will make him a tremendous asset to the Solero Technologies team,” said
Hermiz. “His expertise will be critical to driving greater innovation within Solero, expanding our
reach to new markets and maintaining our commitment to sustainability.”
Dr. James has more than 24 years of leadership experience in the automotive industry,
domestically and abroad. Prior to joining Solero Technologies, he served as the president of the
Americas and an executive committee member at Joyson Safety Systems, where he facilitated
the merger of Takata and Key Safety Systems into Joyson, while developing strategic initiatives
to drive profitability and growth.
In addition, Don served in a variety of leadership positions at Continental AG in both North
America and Europe; most recently as vice president of North America for the company’s
Hydraulic Brake Systems. At Continental, he led the launch of new facilities in Mexico and
established the company’s commercial vehicle market strategy leading to substantial market
growth. He was awarded two Silver Awards; one for ‘Top Turnaround Project in North America’
and the other for ‘Excellence in Project Management & New Business Development’.
“With Solero’s strong reputation of product innovation and manufacturing, I am excited to work
with our employees, customers, suppliers and community to elevate Solero’s product reach
within and outside the automotive industry,” added Dr. James.
Don earned a bachelor’s in economics from the University of Michigan; and both a master’s in
business administration and a doctorate in business administration and sustainability from
Lawrence Technological University.
About Solero Technologies
Solero Technologies is a leading global supplier of transmission solenoids, engine solenoids,
stop-start accumulators, and hydraulic control modules. Our capabilities include advanced
design, prototyping, development, and manufacturing combined with a strong intellectual property portfolio across product categories. We have built an acclaimed reputation for
developing and delivering quality solenoid products to automotive OEMs, the aftermarket and
other industrial sectors. Our industry-leading solenoid products are critical to the optimal
performance of vehicles today and tomorrow. The company operates from its manufacturing
facility in Water Valley, Mississippi, along with related sales and engineering operations in
Detroit. Visit www.solerotechnologies.com for more information.
