Rodney O'Neal facts for kids

Rodney O'Neal is an American business leader. He was the president and chief executive officer (CEO) of Delphi Automotive, a big company that makes parts for cars.

Early Life and Education

Rodney O'Neal was born in Dayton, Ohio. His parents always taught him that education was very important. When he was young, he delivered The Dayton Daily News newspaper. At 13, he was even named the best newspaper delivery boy of the year! He kept working at the newspaper in the part that handles how papers are sent out, until he went to college.

He went to the General Motors Institute, which is now called Kettering University. After that, he earned a Master's degree from Stanford University.

Career Journey

Rodney O'Neal started working at General Motors in 1976. His first job was as an engineer, helping to make steering wheels. Just one year later, he was promoted to a supervisor role.

Over the next several years, he worked in many different engineering and manufacturing jobs. He worked in places all over the United States, as well as in Portugal and Canada. In 1997, he became a vice president at General Motors. He also became the general manager for Delphi Interior Systems.

Leading Delphi Automotive

In 1998, Delphi became its own separate company. Rodney O'Neal became a vice president there. From 2007 until 2015, he was the president and CEO of Delphi.

In November 2011, Mr. O'Neal had the honor of ringing the bell at the New York Stock Exchange. This was a special event to celebrate Delphi's first public offering of its shares.

Board Memberships and Recognition

Rodney O'Neal has served on the board of directors for several companies. These include Delphi and Sprint Nextel. He has also been a board member for the Michigan Manufacturers Association and Woodward, Inc.. He used to be on the board of directors for the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company.

He is part of the Executive Leadership Council. This group helps African-Americans get into leadership roles in business, education, and the community. He also serves on the board of Inroads. This organization helps young people from minority groups get internships in the business world. He is also on the advisory board of Focus: HOPE. This organization in Detroit works to fight racism and poverty.

In 2015, Rodney O'Neal was honored by being added to the Automotive Hall of Fame. This is a special place that recognizes people who have made big contributions to the car industry.

Family Connections

Rodney O'Neal's cousin is Stan O'Neal. Stan O'Neal was once the chairman and CEO of Merrill Lynch, another big company.