“Changing Lives with His Energy”

Chris Charlton, CEO & President, Charlton operates with a consistent vision of value creation for all stakeholders. He demonstrates an unwavering mindset of servant-leader, offering opportunities for others, both inside and outside the company, to grow with increasing responsibilities. Those who work directly with Chris witness his exceptional personal energy and an uncanny talent for recognizing connections that are often not visible to others. When Chris is in the room, things get better.

Chris’ father, RL Charlton, was a very direct influence on the steadfast leader. He often said, “I am no better than anyone, and no one is better than me.” “Treat everyone with respect and the way you would like to be treated.” “Enjoy the Journey!!” “Work hard, but do not be anxious for the outcome as whatever happens is meant to be.” As a Friend, Cardinal Joe Tobin shared, Mother Teresa went to Detroit to raise money for the Nuns, and when Brother Joe said, “I hope you raised a lot of money.” Mother Teresa responded, “I raised exactly what we were supposed to raise, not a dime less nor a dime more.” Armed with these ideologies, Chris has been taking the company to new heights with each passing day. It is pertinent to mention, Chris’ son, CT Charlton, is directing the enterprise transformation to digital with real-time access to company performance. This has been CT’s passion, and under his leadership, The Charlton Group continues to push the leading edge of digital effectiveness.

The company works in tandem with the global OEMs to locate high-quality, difficult-to-find manufacturers of key components anywhere in the world. Each new day brings opportunities for value creation through problem-solving. A lifetime invested in the automotive industry has given Chris exposure to a vast network of customers, competitors, and industry peers. Often these connections and long-lasting relationships provide the initial spark that yields a valuable solution. An industry veteran, Chris recognizes the reality of competitive pressure. However, Chris knows that thoughtful people reach out to those they trust in challenging times as critical life-learners. Every journey begins with a personal relationship that often expands the network of trusted partners with each successful transaction. This is a virtuous circle that remains central to value creation.

"The company works in tandem with the global OEMs to locate high-quality, difficult-to-find manufacturers of key components anywhere in the world. Each new day brings opportunities for value creation through problem-solving."

The first Partner of Charlton was AMG Industries (October 1978). “As with many Clients and companies, we find a unique value proposition and grow in these areas where creativity and an elegant technical solution are required,” adds Chris. “We are still with AMG Industries as a Partner today! Thank you, Jesus. Also, we arrange acquisitions and collaboration between companies where we see an opportunity for explosive synergies. Charlton has done this with Partners Magneti Marelli, Comau, Faurecia, and many others.”

Chris is also the Chairman and Principal Shareholder of IPS Holdings, another unique technology company with an incredible Team. Carbon Neutral Steel will add over 100,000 induced jobs and bring technology back to America. IPS Holdings will also lead the “Greening of American Industry” with Climate Change, eliminating Carbon from entering our atmosphere from currently the worst polluter in the world—steel plants. Chris has often said how much he has been personally blessed to be a part of these initiatives that are genuinely “Changing the World.”

Charlton was involved in creating Nexteer Automotive in 2009 and continues to serve in a global capacity. He is an equity investor and board chairman of Mobex Global. Charlton recently acquired Dura Automotive as an equity partner with MiddleGround Capital and served as a board director. At Luminar Technologies, Charlton is an equity investor and co-chairman of the Automotive Advisory Board with Dr. Dieter Zetsche, former CEO of Daimler. Recently, Charlton joined MiddleGround Capital as an equity investor and board director of Shiloh Industries. Other investments include one of the most successful international technical sales companies with offices strategically located to serve global automotive OEMs. Automotive OEMs would agree that the role played by The Charlton Group is unique within the industry. Chris Charlton pioneered their approach, and the company remains true to its original vision. IE