Previously serving as Director of Automotive Analysis at IHS, he provided support for clients with investment interests in the global auto industry.
Prior to joining CSM Worldwide, Inc. in 2003 (acquired by IHS in 2010), Gillette served the prior thirteen years as Vice President of Automotive Forecasting with IRN, Inc. Beginning as a Strategic Marketing Consultant for the Automotive Components Group (currently Delphi) of General Motors, his experience in the global auto industry dates to 1988. Gillette was also a chief economist and marketing controller in the insurance industry.
Gillette has taught finance at the undergraduate and MBA levels for 28 years for Grand Valley State University’s Seidman College of Business. He earned his B.S. degree at GVSU and his MBA with a concentration in Finance from Seidman. Jim was elected to the Delta Mu Delta business honor society; he received the Finance Department’s H.B. Shaine Award, Graduating With Distinction. In addition, Gillette was the 2005 recipient of the Seidman College of Business Outstanding Alumni Award for Professional Achievement.
Industry Trends:
Mergers & Acquisitions and Investment Analysis: Worked extensively with over ninety clients having interests in the global automotive industry advising the risk-reward profile of auto industry opportunities. Examples of engagements include:
Auto Supplier Market Planning:
Board of Directors / Corporate Governance: Served as a director for several years for two private and one publicly traded auto suppliers including holding the chairmanship of the audit committee for the public firm.