75 Is from: Spain Lives in: Spain, Brazil Speaks: English, Spanish, Catalan, Portuguese Has lived in: U.S.A., U.A.E Has also studied: Bachelor of Business Administration at Universitat de Barcelona Likes: Astronomy, driving, running
Roger Solergibert Mora has a lot of experience in the automotive industry. He first worked at an automotive supplier then transferred to Pegaso trucks for a while until he began his career with Honda in 1992. “I’ve always loved the car industry. It’s my passion,” says Solergibert. “Honda is a worldwide leader… the distinct difference lies in the respect that each worker is shown by the company. We are all associates.” As the automotive division director for the Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal), Solergibert oversees a team of four directors and eight assistants. On what it takes to be a respected manager, he advises: “lead, but be a team player, be entrepreneurial and recognize others constantly.” It is a challenge, but that is exactly what motivates Solergibert. Solergibert anticipates changes to the industry, especially in the user-car interaction arena; he sees lots of development in the dialogue drivers maintain with their cars. He believes innovation is another of Honda’s greatest assets. “Our HR department works constantly with associates in order to promote continuous change and development within the company. Honda is a leader in innovation, thanks to us, the associates. We strive to improve the business in all aspects: product, work environment, facilities, programs, systems, etc.” Solergibert likes to draw a parallel between driving and business: “When you drive a car, you agree to some risks. You also have to respect the engine and other parts of the car in order to make the journey satisfactory and avoid failures and accidents. Business is quite similar in that respect.” And it goes without saying, if Solergibert could be any car in the world, he would “beyond all doubt” be a Honda.