Women's History: Christie Chappell

McKENZIE — Balancing a high-powered corporate career with a strong commitment to family is no small feat, yet Christie Chappell has managed both with determination and success. As Vice President of Finance for Electrification and Business Unit Controller for the Commercial Vehicle Segment of Dana Incorporated, she oversees financial operations across 38 global plants and technical centers, representing $2.5 billion in annual revenue.

Chappell, a McKenzie native and graduate of McKenzie High School and Bethel University, attributes much of her success to the strong educational foundation she received in her hometown. “The small schools I attended really shaped who I am and ultimately benefited me professionally,” she said. While her background in math and accounting was essential for her career, she also credits exceptional English and literature teachers for equipping her with the communication skills necessary to thrive in leadership roles. “I’m not always the smartest person in the boardroom, but I can string a sentence together, present data in a way that is understandable, and am comfortable speaking up when I see a problem or have a concern.”

Chappell’s career at Dana Incorporated spans 27 years, during which she has held various roles in finance and strategic planning. Her current responsibilities include financial reporting, budgeting, compliance with both domestic and international accounting regulations, and managing Dana’s global finance team. She also serves as a managing director for TM4, the company’s electrification joint venture. In an industry historically dominated by men, she has navigated the challenges of inclusion and equality while building a successful career.

While she has achieved remarkable professional success, Chappell considers her greatest accomplishment to be raising her four children alongside her husband of 33 years, Brad Chappell. “Being able to manage a very demanding career while raising four wonderful children is more meaningful to me than any award or professional accomplishment,” she said. Their children, Nick, Jake, Allie, and Drew, have pursued careers in education, sales, and science, and she takes great pride in their achievements. She also cherishes time spent with her daughters-in-law, Brittney and Lindsey, and her three granddaughters, Madilyn, Landry, and Lydia.

Chappell describes her family as close-knit, with strong influences from both her parents, Mike and Laura Bateman, and her in-laws, Richard and Peggy Chappell. Her father, in particular, always encouraged her to think critically and express herself. “My dad told me once that I should have been a lawyer because I sure do like to argue,” she recalled with a laugh. Her family shares a love for travel, with the beach and the Rocky Mountains among their favorite destinations.

Reflecting on Women’s History Month, Chappell acknowledges the importance of recognizing the achievements of women but ultimately wants to be seen as part of the broader professional landscape. “I certainly can see the benefit of highlighting women and their successes, but ultimately I don’t want to be part of only women’s professional groups and women’s history – I want to be part of THE group, THE history.” She remains hopeful that future generations of women, including her daughters and granddaughters, will live in a world where they are valued and respected in all industries. She also believes in supporting fellow women in their careers, citing one of her favorite quotes: “Be the woman who fixes another woman’s crown without telling the world it was crooked.”

Beyond her corporate career, Chappell’s experiences traveling the world have given her a broader perspective on people and cultures. She has visited Canada, Germany, France, Brazil, and China, working with diverse teams and gaining insight into different ways of life. “Most people are good, regardless of gender, race, culture, or religion, and are all just trying to make their way through life,” she said. Exposing her children to these experiences has been one of the most rewarding aspects of her career.

As the automotive industry undergoes rapid transformation, Chappell sees electrification as more than just an inevitable shift—it’s an opportunity for innovation and progress. “The transition to electrification isn’t just about new technology; it’s about redefining how we approach transportation and sustainability,” she said. She remains engaged in advancing the financial strategies that will support these developments, ensuring that businesses and consumers alike can adapt to the changing landscape.

Chappell’s story is one of perseverance, leadership, and dedication to both career and family. She has broken barriers in the automotive finance industry while maintaining strong roots in her community. As she continues to lead in the corporate world, she also remains committed to the values of hard work, education, and family that have shaped her journey. Whether in the boardroom or at home, her influence is evident in the lives she has touched and the example she sets for future generations.