Wouter Borghols

Innovation Strategist | Program & Project Management Leader | Autonomous Mobility & Battery Systems Expert | Cross-Industry Program Manager | Global Cross Functional Team Driver

Wouter J.H. Borghols: Driving Innovation in Automotive, LiDAR & E-Mobility across Europe

Dr. Wouter J.H. Borghols is a seasoned innovation and transformation leader with two decades of experience at the forefront of automotive technology, LiDAR, and e-mobility. With a PhD in Applied Physics and a deep command of Li-Ion battery systems, Wouter has led global programs and multidisciplinary teams for Fortune 500s and high-growth tech companies — translating complex technologies into scalable, production-ready systems.

From steering autonomous driving programs for Volvo Cars and Polestar, to pioneering high-voltage battery solutions and DC fast-charging infrastructure across Europe and the U.S., and Asia. Wouter combines technical excellence with strategic foresight. His approach blends precision program management with business-savvy execution, empowering companies to bridge the gap between prototype and mass market.

Currently based in Germany, Wouter is open to Global opportunities, bringing with him a rare mix of deep technical knowledge, global leadership experience, and an ability to lead innovation under pressure.

How I can help your business

• Autonomous Driving & LiDAR Strategy Leads complex development programs for ADAS and LiDAR, aligning hardware, software, and cross-functional teams to meet OEM expectations and safety standards.
• E-Mobility Systems & Battery Innovation Advises on next-gen energy solutions, including high-voltage Li-Ion battery systems and DC fast-charging networks — from R&D through to manufacturing and field deployment.
• Global Program Management & Transformation Delivers large-scale, cross-border projects with strategic alignment across engineering, SCM, QA, and finance — experienced in startup-to-scale-up transitions and agile/hybrid environments.
• Smart Manufacturing & Industrialization Bridges the gap from prototype to series production, including supply chain management, global logistics, and vendor development — with real-world expertise in plant transitions.
• Automotive Tech Leadership Brings a strong track record in automotive innovation, from early-stage R&D to OEM customer delivery — experienced with BMW, Volvo, Valeo, and Luminar.
• Cross-Cultural Team Building & Mentoring Leads high-performing teams of up to 180 engineers across Europe, the U.S., and Asia, fostering collaboration and knowledge transfer across borders.

Why Work with Wouter?
Whether you’re launching a next-gen automotive product, transitioning advanced prototypes into scalable systems, or seeking senior leadership for a pan-European innovation program, Wouter offers the rare combination of hands-on engineering depth, proven business leadership, and scientific curiosity. He thrives in cross-disciplinary, high-stakes environments where precision and pace must align — and brings a pragmatic, people-first mindset to every engagement.

Location
🇩🇪 Based in Germany — Available for projects across Europe

Positions held

• Senior Program Manager – Eco/G, Munich, Germany
• Program Manager – Luminar Technologies, Orlando, USA / Gothenburg, Sweden / Forstern, Germany
• Advanced Development Project Manager – Valeo GmbH, Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany
• Technical Project Manager / Battery Specialist – ESG GmbH (Outsourced to BMW & BPC-E), Fürstenfeldbruck, Germany
• Research Scientist (Physicist) – Forschungszentrum Jülich, Garching, Germany
• PhD Researcher – Delft University of Technology, Delft, The Netherlands