Retired Executive Helped Steer Nissan’s Growth
Published Jul 22, 2008
Jerry Benefield
Retired President and CEO
Nissan Motor Manufacturing Corp. USA
He’s regarded as a business legend who oversaw the enormous expansion of Rutherford County’s largest employer.
Under Jerry Benefield’s watch as president and chief executive officer of Nissan Motor Manufacturing Corp. USA, the company engineered a major shift in its success, including production of a new vehicle line that required a $490 million expansion and created 2,000 jobs.
Despite his accomplishments and applause from colleagues and various organizations – including as recipient of the 2008 Business Legend award from the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce – Benefield deflects credit to a talented and supportive team.
“You have to get good people around you because you can’t run a successful business by yourself,” he says. “You need all the right tools in your toolbox – experience, education and understanding the business that you are in. Communication is also a big key to anyone’s success.”
After relocating to Rutherford County from Michigan to work for Nissan, Benefield served as president and chief executive officer from 1988 until his retirement in October 2000. Nissan today employs 6,600 in the county.
While enjoying some additional leisure that comes with retirement and spending more time with his grandchildren, Benefield is still active in several civic and business organizations in Rutherford County, where he made his home after retiring.
“The area has great climate, housing is relatively inexpensive and there’s a full range of jobs. The educational system is good and it’s just a great place to live.”
Story by Olivia Lake
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