Joe Bakaj is an accomplished executive and board member with an impressive background in the battery, hydrogen powertrain, and auto industries. He has been instrumental in shaping top-level strategic and operational agendas of organizations including Britishvolt, moion, Ford and Mazda.In his current role as the Chair of the advisory board at Moion Gmbh, he is collaborating with an Aachen University spin-out to advance the commercialization of hydrogen electric powertrain technology for heavy trucks. As Executive Vice Chairman at Britishvolt, Bakaj oversaw the company’s operations and played a key role in developing its go-to-market strategy. Bakaj also guided the company in its scale up phase and was instrumental in introducing a clear company structure and operating practices. Additionally, he provided coaching and mentoring to the founder and CEO and co-chaired the CEO succession planning committee.Before joining Britishvolt, Bakaj spent over 30 years at Ford Motor Company, leading engineering teams across the globe to develop highly successful, award-winning products and technologies. He has extensive experience in the development and governance of strategic joint venture partnerships.He led platform engineering development for Ford’s global small car and commercial van platforms and served as global engineering and business lead for key vehicle lines such as Ford Focus, Fiesta, and Transit. Bakaj also led a global team responsible for the planning and execution of all Ford powertrains and electrification. He instigated and co-chaired Ford’s global CO2 committee.Throughout his career, Bakaj has been recognized for his exceptional leadership on powertrain technology and vehicle development, being named an all-star by Automotive News, Eurostar R&D executive of the year, and Autocar Engineer of the year.Bakaj has a global view and experience working with different cultures, having lived, and worked in the USA, UK, Germany, and Japan. He is bilingual in English and German and holds dual British and German nationality.