The leadership journey of Mauricio Pincheira

Mauricio Pincheira has spent more than twenty-five years in the automotive and energy sectors. He built his career through hands-on operational work, leadership roles and continuous improvement efforts. Today he leads the Automotive and Industrial business for The Chemico Group, a major minority-owned chemical management and distribution company in North America.

His work reflects a simple through line. He analyzes problems, develops solutions and guides teams through change. He pairs engineering skill with business discipline, and he invests in the communities where he works.

Early experience in engineering and operations

Pincheira began his path in engineering. He earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Purdue University and a master’s degree in manufacturing management from Kettering University. These programs shaped his approach to leadership by combining technical knowledge with management training.

General Motors hired him into its manufacturing and corporate operations. He managed production environments, coordinated cross-functional teams and led projects that required structured problem-solving. He implemented lean manufacturing practices and engineering-based improvements that strengthened plant performance.

He later supported startup operations in Mexico and held roles at GM headquarters. He used these positions to lead initiatives that aligned processes, strengthened systems and supported long-term business objectives.

Broadening leadership through private equity

Pincheira expanded his experience when he entered the private equity sector. He led North American operations for a global battery manufacturer. In this role, he managed day-to-day operations, improved performance and contributed to mergers and acquisitions planning.

The work exposed him to the energy sector and deepened his understanding of capital investment and strategic growth. He applied the same direct approach: define a problem, build a plan and execute with discipline.

Leading growth at The Chemico Group

Pincheira now leads the Automotive and Industrial business for The Chemico Group, a $200 million company with 800 employees and operations in the United States, Canada and Mexico. He holds full profit-and-loss responsibility and directs strategy, operations and customer relationships.

He focuses on operational excellence and continuous improvement. His certifications as a Six Sigma Master Black Belt and Project Management Professional support his data-driven approach. He works closely with teams to strengthen processes, improve service and support long-term growth.

His leadership centers on clarity and accountability. He sets clear goals, measures progress and ensures teams understand how their work supports the broader business.

Commitment to community and representation

Pincheira also invests significant time in community work. He supports STEM education programs that aim to expand opportunities for underrepresented youth. He serves on the board of Just Cause, a nonprofit that helps individuals transition from incarceration to stable employment and citizenship.

He has held leadership roles in organizations that support Latino professionals, including the SHPE Detroit Chapter and the GM Latino Network. He also served in a board capacity with the Detroit Hispanic Development Corporation. In 2012 he received the HACR Young Hispanic Corporate Achievers Award for his contributions.

His bilingual fluency and multicultural leadership experience help him work across regions and communities.

A career defined by clarity and purpose

Pincheira’s career shows a consistent pattern. He identifies challenges, sets direction and leads teams through improvement. He has delivered results in manufacturing, energy and chemical distribution while supporting programs that broaden access to education and opportunity.

His work demonstrates a straightforward principle: strong leadership depends on clear decisions, steady execution and responsibility to both organizations and communities.

Conclusion

Mauricio Pincheira continues to lead transformation in the industries he serves while supporting efforts that create long-term opportunity. His direct leadership style, technical background and community focus shape the work he does each day.