AUBURN HILLS — Barbara Pilarski, vice president of business development, Chrysler Group LLC has received the “Spirit of Leadership Award” from Women’s Automotive Association International. The focus of the WAAI is on the development and retention of women leaders and the education and support of all persons, without prejudice, who have an interest in the automotive industry.
The Spirit of Leadership Award is presented annually “to professional women in the automotive industry in recognition of their significant accomplishments in their profession, community, and family.” The award was presented on Feb. 9 in Orlando, Fla.
“This recognition is very meaningful to me. I want to express my sincerest appreciation to the leadership and members of the Women’s Automotive Association International for choosing me to receive this honor,” Pilarski said.
She joined the Chrysler Corp. in 1985 as a financial analyst and has held key positions in various areas, including controlling, treasury mergers, and acquisitions. In 2010, “Automotive News” and Deloitte selected Pilarski as one of the “Top 100 Leading Women in the North American Automotive Industry.”
During her acceptance remarks, Pilarski spoke of an automotive industry in transformation.
“We’ve all made great stride to transform this vitally important industry into a diverse, vibrant, and inclusive industry of leaders,” she said. “But we still have a long way to go. I’m eager and proud to be with all of you on this important journey.”
