Evelyn Simon
Evelyn Simon is a consultant specializing in legal and business advisory services for automotive suppliers, with a focus on loan agreements, cooperation arrangements, and joint ventures. In her consulting role, she works closely with suppliers to structure relationships, negotiate agreements, and advise on operations and overseas setups. Known for her problem-solving skills, Evelyn approaches complex commercial arrangements as puzzles to be solved, combining strategic thinking with adaptability and cross-cultural insight to deliver practical, results-driven solutions.
Evelyn began her professional journey as an engineer in 1964, after earning a bachelor’s degree from Barnard College (Columbia University) and a master’s in physics from the University of Pittsburgh. She initially pursued a PhD but later returned to law, attending night school in the U.S. and completing an additional year of law studies in Melbourne, Australia, where she was admitted to practice law. She practiced law in Australia for several years before returning to the U.S., where she transitioned into corporate leadership and operational management.
As a consultant, Evelyn leverages decades of experience, including her tenure as General Counsel and Vice President of Operations for United Technologies Automotive Group, where she successfully established four profitable operations in China and other parts of Asia. Although she formally retired approximately 20 years ago, she continues to provide expert advisory services to automotive suppliers, helping them navigate complex legal and operational challenges. Her professional philosophy centers on problem-solving, collaboration, and adaptability, ensuring that every engagement delivers sustainable, high-impact results.
• Licensed to Practice Law in the United States
• Licensed to Practice Law in Australia
• Barnard College (Columbia University) – Physics (undergraduate)
• University of Pittsburgh – Master’s in Physics
• U.S. Night Law School – Law degree
• Former Board Member of Henry Ford Hospital
What do you attribute your success to?
I think being adaptable and flexible to change and changing environments has been the key to my success. Throughout my career, I've had to figure out what the new environment is and how to work in it. In the early days, that meant figuring out how to work in a man's world when nobody would hire women engineers. When I moved to Australia with my husband, I had to adapt to being an American and try to fit in there, going back to law school for a year just to be able to practice. Whether I was negotiating with the Chinese when setting up operations in Asia or transitioning from engineering to law to business leadership, it's always been about adaptability. Being open to change and willing to adjust my path as opportunities arose has allowed me to succeed across so many different roles and environments over five decades.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Be open to change, be open to new ideas, and be willing to change your path as opportunities arise. Throughout my career, I've had to adapt to so many different environments and challenges, from working as a woman engineer when nobody would hire women, to practicing law in Australia, to setting up operations in China. The ability to be flexible and embrace change rather than resist it has been essential. Don't be rigid about following one predetermined path. Instead, stay open to new opportunities and be willing to pivot when the situation calls for it. That adaptability and willingness to change course is what will allow you to thrive in whatever comes your way.
Locations
United Technologies Automotive Group
Pompano Beach, FL 33062