Rakoto, Bertrand

Bertrand Rakoto is a Strategic Intelligence leader with an extensive Automotive industry knowledge from over twenty-three years of automotive experience including position at OEMs and Tier 1s such as PSA (Stellantis), ZF (TRW), and Freudenberg. He spent over fifteen years in market intelligence and consulting working for R.L. Polk and other consulting firms. As a Director and Global Automotive Practice Leader for Ducker Carlisle, Bertrand leads automotive market intelligence projects, serving carmakers, tier suppliers, and private equity firms. His fields of command cover automotive technology and materials trends, including strategic planning, technology portfolio management, lightweighting, connectivity, electrification, and automated driving solutions. Since 2022, he is President of the French American Chamber of Commerce (Michigan Chapter). Bertrand is also an active member of the Society of Automotive Analysts (SAA), and the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). Bertrand is a columnist (Autoactu.com & L’Automobile Magazine), published author, and speaker for various international automotive shows and industry trade associations. In 2016, he testified before The French Parliament Special Commission led by Delphine Batho on the Automotive Industry and influenced proposals both on vehicle history and traceability. On a more personal perspective, Bertrand is fueled by a zeal for automotive history and classic cars. He has founded several non-profit car organizations specialized in road and track events for fellow automotive enthusiasts. Bertrand holds a Master’s degree in Management from ESC Clermont (France), an MBA in Tactical and Strategic marketing from Cleveland State University, and has been certified in Strategic Intelligence by the IHEDN (French Military College Institute).