Mr. Ibrahim (Abe) Zakhem

Mr. Ibrahim (Abe) Zakhem, a seasoned senior executive, brings over 35 years of expertise in Automotive Global Product Development, Global Purchasing and Sourcing, Data Analytics, and the establishment of successful global teams. With a master’s and bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Abe’s career is distinguished by his ability to lead innovative technologies, foster international joint ventures, and execute compelling global strategies that deliver results.

A visionary leader, Abe has demonstrated exceptional skill in navigating complex challenges, developing high-performing teams, and driving operational excellence. His leadership style is characterized by earned confidence, collaboration, and a relentless focus on innovation and growth.

Throughout his extensive career at General Motors, Abe spearheaded numerous strategic initiatives, delivering measurable results across multiple continents. Known for his exceptional problem-solving capabilities and advanced analytical mindset, he consistently integrated people, processes, and technology to transform organizational operations and exceed business objectives.

Education

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (MSME)
University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), Chicago, Illinois (1984–1986)

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME)
University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC), Chicago, Illinois (1981–1984)

High School – Lebanese Baccalaureate – Lebanon

Abe completed his high school education at Bterram High Shool in Lebanon, earning the Lebanese Baccalaureate from (1966 – 1979), setting a solid academic groundwork for his future pursuits.

Languages

His linguistic repertoire includes fluency in French, English, and Arabic, facilitating effective communication across diverse cultural and linguistic contexts.

French, English, Arabic

Work Experience

Executive Leadership Journey

Leadership in Global Engineering Systems and Analytics (GESAT)

In September 2020, Abe Zakhem assumed responsibility for Global Engineering Systems and Tools (GESAT), rejoining the GPD Operations Staff and integrating the GPD Analytics team under his leadership. Abe fostered a cohesive and efficient team that effectively addressed GM's challenges by streamlining operations and enhancing collaboration.

Abe played a pivotal role in leading strategic forums, including:

• IT Strategy & Planning for GPD: Driving alignment between IT infrastructure and business needs to support global operations.

• GPD Analytics Council: Focused on maximizing analytics capabilities through collaboration, resource prioritization, and workload optimization.

The GPD Analytics Council prioritized the dynamic sharing of resources and reduced redundancies by consolidating competing analytics efforts into a unified "front door" GPDA team.

Collaboration with the Chief Data Analytics Office (CDAO)

As a member of the GM Senior Analytics Leadership Group (ALG), Abe supported CDAO in advancing analytics across GM by establishing consistent best practices, standardized tools, and streamlined processes. Abe also led the GPD Analytics team within CDAO, bridging technical expertise in data engineering and science with GPD’s operational needs. This collaboration enabled business leaders to leverage data-driven insights to enhance program efficiency, reduce material costs, optimize complexity, and improve profitability.

Global Leadership in Purchasing and Supply Chain Management

Abe’s prior roles reflect a breadth of international experience and operational leadership:

• Executive Director of Global Purchasing and Supplier Quality (GPSQ) at the SAIC-GM joint venture in Shanghai, China (2011–2017), overseeing over 4,000 suppliers and managing $20 billion in annual material spending.

• Leadership positions in GPSC and Advanced Global Technology Engineering (GTE) in Germany, Mexico, and other regions, driving innovations in thermal and chassis systems, and managing critical supplier relationships.

A Record of Impact and Excellence

Across his tenure, Abe has consistently demonstrated strategic leadership, operational expertise, and a commitment to driving measurable improvements in efficiency and profitability. His ability to align technical capabilities with business priorities has been instrumental in shaping GM’s analytics, engineering, and supply chain practices on a global scale.

The following is a comprehensive overview of Abe Zakhem’s strategic roles and global influence in advanced technology, operations, and engineering enterprises:

• General Motors Corporation, Warren, Michigan
  Director – Global Product Development Analytics, Systems & Tools
  Global Product Development Operations (September 2020 – September 2023)

• General Motors Corporation, Warren, Michigan
  Director – Global Product Development Analytics
  Chief Data and Analytics Office (January 2018 – August 2020)

• General Motors Corporation, Warren, Michigan
  Industrialization Chief – GEM Program (July 2016 – December 2017)

• SAIC-General Motors (SGM), Shanghai, China
  Executive Director – Purchasing Department / Supplier Quality (August 2011 – June 2016)

• General Motors Corporation, Warren, Michigan
  Director – Global Purchasing and Supply Chain, Chassis Systems (July 2009 – July 2011)

• General Motors of Europe (Opel), Russelsheim, Germany
  Director – Global Technology Engineering, Thermal Systems (2007–2009)

• General Motors de Mexico, Mexico City, Mexico
  Director – Global Purchasing and Supply Chain, Thermal Systems (2005–2007)

• General Motors Corporation, Warren, Michigan
  Cost Reduction and Warranty Improvement Manager – Thermal Systems (2002–2005)

• General Motors Corporation, Pontiac, Michigan
  Vehicle Line Team Cost Reduction Manager – Full-Size Truck (1988–2002)
  Engineering Group Manager – HVAC and Powertrain Cooling
  Vehicle System Engineer – HVAC and Powertrain Cooling

• LTV Missiles and Electronics, AM General Division, Livonia, Michigan
  Reliability Engineer – Product Reliability and Durability (1987–1988)

Abe Zakhem’s Key Achievements

Maltese National Order of Merit Award

Dr. Khoury was honoured with the prestigious National Order of Merit and the Medal for Service to the Republic of Malta during a dignified Investiture Ceremony held at the Palace in Valletta. The distinguished awards were presented to him by none other than the esteemed President of Malta, George Abela.

The National Order of Merit holds a special place in Malta's honours system, paying homage to Maltese citizens who excel across various domains. Embodying the motto "Virtute et Constantia" (With Courage and Perseverance), this Order recognizes outstanding contributions to the nation.

While typically reserved for Maltese citizens, Dr. Khoury received a rare honorary membership, a testament to his exceptional dedication. His remarkable service in safeguarding Malta's interests and its people during the global financial crisis, coupled with his efforts in promoting and nurturing international relations, earned him this distinguished honour. Through his actions, he has not only protected the Maltese entity but also garnered the deep respect and gratitude of the people of the Maltese Islands.

Manufacturing vs Corruption: Joseph Khoury's Quest for Transparency

"Manufacturing versus Corruption: Who Wins?" stands as a testament to the visionary leadership and unwavering commitment of Dr. Khoury, who co-authored this groundbreaking work alongside Dr. Ramy Harik. With over five decades of experience in engineering and manufacturing, Dr. Khoury brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to the table, infusing the book with his profound understanding of the intricacies of the industry.

At the heart of Khoury's message lies a clarion call for transformative change—a rallying cry to harness the power of science, economics, technology, and policy-making in harmony. Through this collaborative effort, he champions a new era of manufacturing, one characterized by transparency, accountability, and socio-political stability.

Dr. Khoury's role in crafting this narrative extends beyond mere authorship; it embodies a deeply held belief in the potential of the manufacturing sector to drive positive change on a global scale. His tireless advocacy for a digital manufacturing economy grounded in transparency underscores a commitment to fostering an environment where innovation thrives, and corruption is eradicated.

Dr. Khoury's words and actions inspire a new generation to rise to the challenge and shape a world where integrity reigns supreme, inviting all to join him on this journey toward a brighter, more equitable future built on the principles of good governance and ethical conduct.

Consultancy Expertise Overview

• Strategic Leadership and Innovation

  • Developed advanced analytics tools and IT systems for automotive product development, enabling data-driven decisions and maximizing profitability.

  • Spearheaded initiatives in requirements traceability, validation systems, and enhanced engineering change management for global quality standards.

• Operational Excellence and Global Expansion

  • Managed multi-billion-dollar purchasing portfolios in the U.S., China, and Europe, achieving significant cost reductions and supplier optimization.

  • Championed industrialization and localization strategies across regions, resulting in substantial material cost savings and increased operational efficiency.

• Pioneering Technologies

  • Introduced groundbreaking thermal technologies and spearheaded the automotive industry’s adoption of green refrigerants.

  • Designed competitive and reusable BOM strategies, driving innovation in energy efficiency and vehicle electrification.

• Team Development and Leadership

  • Built and led high-performing global teams, integrating diverse skill sets and fostering collaboration to achieve organizational goals.

  • Mentored analytics talent within General Motors, ensuring career growth and institutionalizing best practices across global operations.

Conclusion

Abe Zakhem exemplifies strategic leadership, operational acumen, and technological innovation. His distinguished tenure at General Motors highlights his ability to drive sustainable growth, foster innovation, and deliver measurable results on a global scale. With a proven track record of success, Abe remains a visionary leader poised to contribute to transformative organizational growth.