Dana Incorporated has announced the appointment of R. Bruce McDonald as its new Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. This leadership transition follows the retirement of James Kamsickas, who steps down as CEO after nine successful years at the helm. To ensure continuity, Mr. Kamsickas will remain an advisor to the company through March 2025.
Mr. McDonald brings over three decades of leadership experience in the automotive and manufacturing sectors. A member of Dana’s Board of Directors since 2014, he has played a pivotal role in the company’s governance, serving on the Audit Committee and chairing the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee.
Before joining Dana, Mr. McDonald served as the Chairman and CEO of Adient plc, a leading global mobility solutions provider. He also held several senior leadership roles at Johnson Controls, Inc., including Executive Vice President and Vice Chairman, as well as Chief Financial Officer. Earlier in his career, he worked as Vice President for Finance at TRW Automotive, where he honed his expertise in financial management, strategic planning, and mergers and acquisitions.
“Bruce is a seasoned leader with a proven track record of driving growth and operational excellence in the automotive and manufacturing industries,” said the company in a statement. “His extensive experience and deep understanding of Dana’s business will ensure the company’s continued success as it navigates the future of mobility.” As Dana’s new CEO, Mr. McDonald is poised to guide the company through its next chapter, leveraging his vast industry expertise to accelerate innovation and strengthen its position as a global leader in sustainable mobility solutions.
Kamsickas reflected on his tenure, stating “I am proud of the work the Dana team has done over the past decade to grow revenues and successfully enhance the technology to serve all mobility markets no matter what type of propulsion they may use. It has been an honor to lead this talented global team during that time and I am confident the Company is well positioned for the future.”
Keith Wandell, Dana’s Lead Independent Director, highlighted the leadership change as part of the Company’s strategy to navigate a rapidly transforming mobility industry. He noted that Mr. McDonald’s extensive public company leadership experience, coupled with his expertise in mergers and acquisitions, makes him well-suited to guide Dana through this critical period while the Board conducts a comprehensive search for a permanent CEO.
As he assumes his new role, McDonald emphasized his commitment to driving value for the Company and its shareholders. “Dana is differentiated by leading technology innovation and a track record of continuous improvement,” said Mr. McDonald. “My conviction in our businesses, the team and the opportunities to capitalize on the EV transition over the long term remain strong. I look forward to stepping into my new role as CEO at such an important time for Dana and will work diligently alongside the Board and management team to deliver on these actions and drive value for Dana shareholders.”
