Charles Kim, CIPP/US

Captain
DISC Type : DS

VP, Marketing & eCommerce at Straub Automotive

Bradenton, Florida, United States

Overview

Charles is the VP of Marketing & eCommerce at Straub Automotive, leveraging deep expertise in brand strategy and digital retail. An alumnus of the University of Michigans Ross School of Business and a Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP/US), colleagues describe him as a forward-thinking, pragmatic, and best-in-class leader in the automotive industry.

Outside of his professional life, Charles is a multi-talented enthusiast with a diverse range of interests. He is an auto racing driver, a musician, an artist, and a teaching tennis professional. His hobbies also include downhill skiing, motorcycle riding, and 4x4 off-roading, showcasing a passion for both speed and outdoor adventure.

Unique fact: He is the President of VISION Engines, a company developing a scalable, cleaner-than-electric power solution to replace internal combustion engines.

Personality Overview

Output-Driven

Long-Term Thinker

Planner & Achiever

They are very professional in their approach and can weigh multiple perspectives together.  Reading between the lines and seeing beyond your words comes naturally to them. They might take some time to make their mind up but once they do, they don't change it easily.

Topics They Care About

Automotive Retail Innovation
He is critical of OEM digital certification programs, believing they stifle innovation and negatively impact sales and customer experience, advocating for more competitive solutions.
Future Engine Technology
As President of VISION Engines, he is directly involved in developing a cleaner-than-electric alternative to the internal combustion engine, showing a passion for powertrain innovation.
Environmental Auto Policy
He has publicly shared opinions on the negative impacts of EPA policies on vehicle affordability and the automotive industry, indicating a focus on regulatory effects.

Media Appearances

Charles has no verified media appearances

Work History

12-2025
VP, Marketing & eCommerce at Straub Automotive
10-2022 - 12-2025
CEO/CSO at DealerX
9-2022
President and Executive Chairman at VISION Engines, Inc.
9-2022
Principal at Titan Global Group
7-2020 - 10-2022
Director, Retail Transformation at Hudson Automotive Group, Inc

Education

9-1987 - 5-1991
BBA from University of Michigan - Stephen M. Ross School of Business

More Information

Social Presence :

Prographics :

Exp : 40 Location : Bradenton, Florida, United States Job Level : Senior Designation : VP, Marketing & eCommerce at Straub Automotive
URL has been copied!

Insights For Selling To Charles

During A Call Or A Meeting

DO's

  • Let them know of potential risks but suggest mitigation methods alongside
  • Focus on the results that your product produces, expect some strategic questions in return
  • During followups, use phone or text if needed, they should be fine

DONT's

  • Don't shy away from asking hard questions, but be extra polite
  • Avoid putting conscious effort into relationship-building
  • Don't go over them unless you are left with no other option

When Cold Calling

When Writing An Email

While Negotiating & Closing

    The secret to closing fast with Charles is

  • Strong proof of impact and their conviction will matter the most, but they wouldn't want to act unilaterally either
  • Will you ever get a clear answer from Charles

  • They will say no if they are not convinced but you will have to prompt them.

Insights For Deal Planning

    How fast (or slow) will Charles move?

  • They will want to understand things well but can move fast once they have a clear picture.
  • Can Charles take some risk or not?

  • They have good risk tolerance but are likely to think it through once or twice.

You And Charles

Personality Compatibility


More Profiles

Discover additional public profiles from our index.

Search more profiles

Looking for someone else? Search here for anyone.

Or visit Humantic AI to know more.