Background

Accomplished in-house counsel with demonstrated business acumen and experience including multiple positions in motor vehicle sales and service. Highly effective in transactional matters and communicating pragmatic advice supporting business goals. Skilled in numerous areas of business law with an emphasis on motor vehicle manufacturer/dealer law. Experienced in process improvement, training and compliance. Recognized for responsiveness and concise communication. Advocate of technological proficiency.

Job experience

• 2009 - November 2021
  Corporate Counsel
  Hino Motors Sales U.S.A., Inc.
  

  Novi, MI, USA

  Provided legal guidance on corporate strategy, policies and procedures, and general business matters. Identified and assessed legal risks of proposed company actions and offered pragmatic solutions to business managers and senior management. Proactively evaluated business practices and implemented processes to improve efficiencies and ensure legal compliance. Managed outside counsel supporting complex matters.

• 2001 - 2008
  Dealer Franchising Manager, Audi Brand
  Volkswagen Group of America, Inc.
  

  Auburn Hills, MI, USA

  Advanced Audi’s distribution strategy through evaluation of ownership changes, relocations, facility plans, capitalization structures and terminations for a nationwide network of 270 dealerships to ensure compliance with company standards and motor vehicle manufacturer/dealer laws. Drafted, reviewed and negotiated contracts supporting new dealer points, market consolidations and facility improvements. Supervised two professionals and managed a $1.85M annual budget.

• 1995 - 2001
  Marketing, Sales and Service
  Ford Motor Company
  

  Dearborn, MI, USA; Orlando, FL, USA

  Helped Ford achieve its goals in the following field and corporate positions in its retail distribution channel:
  • Dealership Market Representation Coordinator, Sales Division
  • Recruiting Account Manager, Human Resources
  • Office Operations Specialist, Service Division
  • Customer Service Territory Manager, Service Division
  • Vehicle Sales Territory Manager, Sales Division
  • Customer Service Representative, Service Division

Education

• Wayne State University Law School
  J.D., Business Law
  

  1990 - 1993
• University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
  B.A., Psychology
  

  1986 - 1990

• Member
  State Bar of Michigan
  P49320
  

  1994 - present
• Training
  

  - present

  Business Law ( 9 Sessions ); Dealership Operations ( 9 Courses ); Employment Law ( 2 Seminars ); Financial Statements and Analysis; Information Technology Law ( 5 Seminars ); Intellectual Property Law ( 2 Seminars ); Interviewer Skills; Japanese Language ( 25 Sessions ); Six Sigma ( Green Belt ); Supervisor Skills; Written and Oral Communication Skills; Participate in continuing training.