Director, EBO Strategy, Data & Connectivity

Major Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership & Vision
• Define and lead the long-term business strategy for automotive data and connectivity across all platforms.
• Identify and develop new business models and revenue streams, leveraging vehicle data, data services, and connectivity solutions.
• Monitor and respond to evolving regulatory, privacy, and industry trends related to vehicle data and telematics.
• Partner with MNAO Information Security team to establish and implement best practices for data governance, privacy compliance (e.g., GDPR, CCPA), and quality assurance.
• Work closely with Data Intelligence, IT, Product Planning, R&D, and Aftersales to transform data into actionable insights, products, and tools that drive business value.
• Connected Vehicle Program Ownership
• Oversee the design, development, and deployment of connected vehicle services (e.g., over-the-air updates, remote diagnostics, software-defined features, and infotainment).
• Collaborate with Product Planning, Engineering, IT, and other internal departments for product development and execution with data connectivity strategies.
• Drive the integration of software and connectivity capabilities into vehicle platforms to enhance performance, personalization, and customer experience.
• Lead partnerships with external technology providers, telecom operators, and/or data platforms to expand connected vehicle ecosytems and value propositions.
• Define KPIs and success metrics to measure adoption, performance, and profitability of connected services.
• Ensure cybersecurity, safety, and data privacy standards are embedded across connected vehicle systems and platforms.
• Partnership & Ecosystem Development
• Develop strategic partnerships with internal stakeholders, 3rd party providers, and broader ecosystem partners to advance data and connectivity initiatives.
• Lead commercial negotiations and oversee contractual agreements related to data licensing, sharing, and technology integration to ensure mutual value and compliance.
• Identify and cultivate new external alliances to accelerate innovation and expand connected vehicle capabilities.
• Define partnership frameworks and governance models to ensure alignment with strategic, legal, and data privacy requirements.
• Team Leadership
• Build and lead a cross-functional team of product managers and foster a culture of innovation, inspiration, agility, and continuous improvement.
• Set department priorities, allocate resources, and hold staff accountable for results.
• Drive staff development, performance management, and adherence to company policies.
• Manage department budget, reporting, and performance metrics.
• Promote the Mazda Pride Point culture with a focus on collaboration, continuous improvement, quality, and accountability.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of relevant experience, to include the following required:
• 7+ years experience with an automotive OEM in a corporate, regional, or field role with complete understanding of an OEM/dealership relationship required.
• 5+ years managing a team with demonstrated track record of successfully mentoring, leading, and retaining a highly productive team with a focus on best practices required.