The automotive industry is a field where African American workers in executive positions are few and far between. However, in the age of diversity, inclusion, and equity, companies are beginning to realize their executive staff must mirror those they represent. Companies are starting to employ and appoint more African Americans to positions in the C-suite and executive teams.
Subaru of America has recently made headlines for making history within their company. Renee Rhem, has been named the first Black woman to hold a position on their executive team. Moreover, Rhem’s appointment as the first African American woman to hold a C-Suite position at Subaru breaks barriers for other African American employees and sheds a spotlight on the company’s need for diversity.
In her current role as Vice President of Customer Advocacy at Subaru of America, Inc, Rhem is responsible for the Subaru customer experience across all channels. In this division, the Customer Advocacy team works to preserve customer as well as brand loyalty. The team also works to promote positive partnerships with Subaru retailers to resolve customer issues. With her executive role, Rhem will report directly to the President and CEO, Subaru of America, Inc, Thomas J. Doll.
“Since joining our team in 2020, Renee has gone above and beyond to ensure the Subaru Love Promise Customer Commitment shines in all interactions with our valued owners,” said Thomas J. Doll, President and CEO, Subaru of America, Inc. “We’re proud to welcome Renee to the Subaru executive team and are confident she will deliver the strong results that keep Subaru best-in-class for our customer’s experience with our brand.”
Though fairly new to the company, Rhem’s field of expertise spans several companies and roles. Holding positions in operations, sales support, and customer service, including roles at Prudential Financial, Independence Blue Cross and Bank of America, Rhem takes on Subaru with a wealth of knowledge. A member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and the National Alumnae Association of Spelman College, Rhem has over 25 years of experience.
In addition, Rhem is charged with ensuring the company’s Subaru Love Promise is extended to all customers. The Subaru Love Promise is the company’s motto. It exists to show love and respect to everyone, and to support its communities and customers nationwide.
In addition to making history within itself, Subaru also shows that it is a champion of the community and of the environment as their Subaru of Indiana Automotive is the only U.S. automobile manufacturing plant to be designated a backyard wildlife habitat by the National Wildlife Federation. In the last 20 years, the company has donated more than $200 million dollars to various causes near and dear to the Subaru family’s heart. In the same timeframe, its employees have logged more than 63,000 volunteer hours.
Subaru of America is a wholly owned subsidiary of Subaru Corporation of Japan, Subaru of America is headquartered out of Camden, N.J.
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