Every day at Franco we’re working in this city and finding more stories of innovation, creativity and determination that inspire us. “Detroit Inspires Me” is our way to share what makes us proud to be Detroiters.

We recently had the pleasure to talk with Matt Simoncini, President and Chief Executive Officer of Lear Corporation and we asked him a few questions about how Detroit inspires him personally and how Detroit inspires Lear.

What about Detroit inspires you?

Detroit inspires me in so many different ways, but it starts with the heritage of Detroit; our history of changing the world, the way that we put America on wheels, and the rich history not just in the automotive industry, but in music and the arts, the DIA (Detroit Institute of Arts), Motown (Motown Museum) – we were such an important part of the culture of this country and to me, when we think about our history, that inspires me to look to our future.

Why is Lear in Detroit?

How does Detroit influence your product?

What is Lear’s role in Detroit’s renaissance?

Lear Corporation has a long history of supporting the communities we do business in all around the world, but we grew up in Detroit. We have a 100-year history in the city of Detroit. We’re Detroiters, I’m a Detroiter; I was born and raised in the city. We believe that we have an obligation to give back to our community. It’s the right thing to do as a corporate citizen, it’s the right thing to do for our employees, and it’s the right thing to do as the CEO of this corporation. We’re very proud of our relationship with the city, we’re proud of the organizations we support, and we believe it’s an obligation, as a corporation, to do that.

Where do you go to be inspired in the city?

Detroit has so many jewels, if you will, in a city that is so inspirational. The one I take pride in; or the most comfort in, is Belle Isle and the history of Belle Isle and the fact that it’s in an urban setting right in the middle of the river. I ride my bike there, I walk there, think there, I enjoy the park and I love to see its resurgence and it coming back. Were down there for the Grand Prix and we spend a lot of time there.

What do you hope to inspire in the next generation?

What is your wish for Detroit’s future?

My wish for the future of the city of Detroit is that the neighborhoods once again become thriving Meccas where the children have a chance to get a world-class education and go on to change the world like we did so many years ago.