Automotive Intellect Blog

When Brett Pynnonen, Visteon’s Senior Vice President and General Counsel, traded his law degree for managing a blueberry farm, he didn’t expect it would shape his future leadership philosophy in corporate law. Today, he leads the legal strategy for one of the world’s leading automotive technology companies.

Early Career Challenges

Turns out, farming can be just as challenging as practicing law! Within two years, Brett returned to the legal world, diving into corporate law where he eventually rose to General Counsel.

Just when everything seemed to be moving in Brett’s favor, he faced a major challenge: a subpoena related to the company’s financial performance. As a young lawyer with everything on the line, this was a humbling experience. Despite knowing the financial reports were accurate, he had to prove it to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Brett spent months working tirelessly, often sleeping at a hotel near the office, determined to protect the company and support the truth. After three years, the SEC agreed with Brett and the company was successfully sold.

Leadership Philosophy

In time, Brett grew from that position to larger companies as General Counsel which ultimately led him to Visteon. During Visteon’s “Life as a Leader” series, he shared influential leadership quotes that guide his approach:

• “Be curious, not judgmental.” Walt Whitman, Ted Lasso
• “Leadership is not about being in charge. It’s about taking care of those in your charge.” Simon Sinek
• “It’s not hard to know what the right thing is to do, but it may be very hard to do it.” Admiral William McRaven
• “The easiest day was yesterday.” Admiral William McRaven
• “A good shepherd should smell like his sheep.” Pope Francis
• “It is better to try and fail…than to never try.” Theodore Roosevelt

Brett’s main giveaway is “whichever company you work at, treat it like it’s your family’s blueberry farm.” This will hold you accountable, reliable, humble, adaptable, and curious.

Work-Life Balance

Brett stressed the need for growth and the power of curiosity and challenge. His session was especially entertaining because in addition to sharing his work experience, he showed photos from along the way, capturing his travels from tourist “traps” to faraway lands. Brett did a great job revealing how he incorporates work with his daily life, including travels and prioritizing family time. He makes time for what’s important and he encourages his team to do the same.

Join Visteon!

Interested in working with leaders like Brett Pynnonen? Join team Visteon – view our open roles here.