An Interview with Christiane Stein, June's Member of the Month and Director – Global Heavy Truck Research at S&P Global Mobility

Join us for an Exclusive Interview with Christiane Stein, Director – Global Heavy Truck Research at S&P Global Mobility, as she shares her motivations, insights, and invaluable advice for aspiring professionals in the automotive industry. Discover the Hidden Gems of Her Journey, Gain Practical Wisdom, and Be Inspired. Don't Miss this Month's Member of the Month Interview, Unveiling a World of Possibilities!

Why did you join the Women Automotive Network? 

When I finished my studies, I looked into several industries. I started in automotive and connected my passion for numbers with vehicles. Very soon, I convinced my then-boss at a truck and bus OEM that to understand the product better I would need to get a bus driver's license. Since then, conversations with colleagues, clients and industry connections have gotten more interesting. I joined the Women Automotive Network to meet women in the industry, see how I can learn from them and share my experience.

 Why is DE&I important to you? 

It’s the perspectives from different backgrounds that bring creativity, problem-solving and new ideas to the team. DEI is also important for me as female role models are still often hard to come by in the top leadership positions and we need these role models to show the current and next generation their opportunities.

What is the number one automotive trend you are keeping up with currently? 

I work primarily in the commercial vehicle space, so we’re closely monitoring the uptake of electric buses and trucks in different countries worldwide and how this will influence vehicle production. 

What are your predictions for the automotive industry in 2023?

Supply chains will get better in 2023 and production of commercial vehicles will pick up. Growth will dominantly stem from countries in Asia-Pacific.

Who is your inspirational woman? 

My mother – she has been a career woman and advocating for women in leadership roles for a long time.

What is your proudest career moment? 

In 2013, I attended a training and set the goal not to only prepare slide decks but also to give a presentation in front of an audience. After a couple of presentations in-house and in front of growing audiences in 2018 I presented our European truck production forecast at the IAA show in Hannover in front of a large audience of industry colleagues. 

What was your first car? 

A red Hyundai Lantra. About 10 years later, the first bus I drove was a Neoplan Cityliner 12 meters.

What advice would you offer to those considering starting a career within the automotive industry?

Be brave,  speak up and shine your light. You can get what you ask for.