Linda Hasenfratz

“Any time you have a change, you have opportunity.” With over two decades of experience working for Linamar, Linda has embraced said dictum and is quite familiar with the obstacles and opportunities change presents. From machine operator to CEO, Linda’s firsthand experience at the company has equipped her with the skill set to enhance Linamar sales from $800 million to more than $1.7 billion. During the recession, when the auto industry struggled with serious economical turmoil, Linda saw a chance for growth and personally invested in one million Linamar shares. With those shares now valued six times higher, this forward-thinker is continuing to expand her company into European and Asian countries, with ‘recession’ far from her vocabulary. Join us over lunch to be inspired by this powerful CEO, and learn how the optimistic approach to obstacles can equate to success.

Linda Hasenfratz was named Chief Executive Officer of Linamar Corporation on August 12, 2002. From April 1999 to August 2002 she was President of Linamar Corporation. Ms. Hasenfratz joined Linamar Corporation in July 1990 and embarked on an extensive training program to gain familiarity with all aspects of the business. Positions held in the Corporation range from Machine Operator all the way up to General Manage of the company’s Vehcom Manufacturing and Comtech Manufacturing Ltd. Divisions.

Ms. Hasenfratz completed an Executive MBA from the Ivey School of Business at the University of Western Ontario in June 1997. In addition, Ms. Hasenfratz holds an Honours Bachelor of Science degree from the same institution. The analytical and strategic planning skills gained during the MBA program in combination with practical skills gained at Linamar are key factors in Ms. Hasenfratz’ executive development.

Since Ms. Hasenfratz assumed corporate level responsibilities, Linamar sales have grown from $800 million to more than $1.7 billion. The corporation has undergone significant change in terms of formalization, development, communication and execution of a vision and strategy for future growth as well as development of communication, performance management and operating systems utilized throughout the company.

Linamar designs, develops and manufactures precision machined components, modules and systems for engine, transmission and chassis systems primarily for the North American and European automotive marketplace. The company’s industrial division is a world leader in aerial lift platform products. The company has over 10,000 employees in 37 manufacturing locations, five research and development centers and eleven sales offices in Canada, United States, Mexico, Germany, Hungary, China, Korea and Japan.

Board and Council Memberships:

• Vice Chairman, Board of Governors, Royal Ontario Museum – appointed Spring 2002
• Catalyst Canadian Board of Advisors – appointed Fall 2003
• CIBC Board of Directors – appointed June 2004
• Original Equipment Manufacturers Association Board of Directors – appointed November 2005.
• Member of the North American Competitive Council – appointed June 2006.

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