Maël Briend

As an experienced heat pump and valve Engineer and Expert, I specialize in the development and validation of advanced thermal systems for electric and hybrid vehicles. With over 9 years of experience in automotive engineering, I have demonstrated a strong ability to design and specify technical components, manage supplier relationships, and ensure seamless integration across multiple product development stages, from R&D to SOP. Technical Expertise: - Thermal Systems & Heat Pumps: Extensive experience in the design, validation, and optimization of heat pump systems, battery cooling solutions, and HVAC for automotive applications. - Refrigerant Valves (eValves): Expertise in active and passive refrigerant valve technologies, including Shut-Off Valves, Check Valves, and Electronic Expansion Valves. - Multi-National Project: Proficient in coordinating cross-functional teams across Europe, Asia, and North America to drive global product development and ensure alignment with customer needs and regulatory standards. - Supplier and Stakeholder Management: Experienced in leading suppliers through all development phases (Pre-development, RFI, RFQ, DV, PV, SOP), and providing technical support for quality control. Soft Skills: - International Collaboration: Adept at working with diverse, cross-cultural teams in a global environment, with a proven track record of effective communication and collaboration across Europe, Asia, and North America. - Adaptability: My curiosity and drive for continuous learning allow me to quickly adapt to new challenges and sectors, successfully navigating complex engineering problems in evolving fields. - Training & Mentorship: Passionate about knowledge sharing, I have been a trainer at Valeo Academy for the past 4 years, where I deliver technical training on heat pumps and refrigerant valves to both internal teams and customer teams. - Fluent in English: Strong proficiency in English, both written and spoken, facilitating communication in international teams and with customers globally. With a keen interest in innovation and a strong technical foundation, I thrive in dynamic environments where I can leverage my skills to drive impactful results while maintaining positive relationships across diverse teams and stakeholders.