Mike Chaffins

Accomplished Executive, Board Member and Venture Capital Partner with over three decades of experience in global automotive and supply chain. My career includes the successful launch of 27 vehicles across diverse platforms for renowned automakers Toyota, Mercedes-Benz and Nissan and startup automakers Nikola and Xos Trucks. As a seasoned leader, I have navigated traditional and startup landscapes (Private > IPO > Public), advancing innovative engine technologies including internal combustion, hybrid, battery electric, and hydrogen fuel cells. My expertise spans strategy, purchasing, capital raising, sustainability, quality, customs and logistics, enabling me to manage complex supply chain operations in over 50 countries across six continents. My dedication to operational excellence is rooted in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and governed by the methodologies of Hoshin Kanri, Annual Operating Plan (AOP) and Objectives and Key Results (OKR), providing me unique depth and breadth in strategy and governance.

Beyond my operational achievements, I have established myself as a visionary leader and advocate for culture-driven growth. My leadership philosophy, %22Invest in your people, and your people will invest in you,%22 underscores my commitment to building high-performing teams and aligning organizational values with strategic goals. Throughout my career, I have mentored executives, fostering engagement at all levels. As a public speaker and media contributor, I am recognized for my eloquence in communicating with diverse stakeholders such as media, shareholders, employees and Board Members, earning accolades such as a %22Top 20 Influencer in Mobility%22 and invitations to deliver keynote speeches at international conferences.

Currently, I serve as the COO of iFind, a Venture Capital Partner at proChain Ventures and a Board Advisor at Alpha Motor Corporation, providing strategic guidance and governance to automotive, mobility and supply chain tech companies. My extensive board experience, including roles in the Executive, Governance, Steering, Risk, Audit and Leadership Dev. Committees, reflects my capacity to navigate complex business challenges. Equipped with AI Strategy and Governance, Sustainability and Negotiation certifications from Wharton | Penn, Virginia and Yale respectively, and an International Board Director Competency Designation which equips me with a comprehensive understanding of Board operations, decisioning processes and structures, I combine academic rigor with practical insight to deliver innovative solutions that drive organizational success.