CEO - Thomas Andrew

Thomas Andrew is a male entrepreneur and artisan specializing in handcrafted leather goods from Canada. He is currently the CEO and founder of CarSilk, a brand focused on designing and producing leather products for automotive interiors. Before establishing his own brand, Thomas gained extensive experience working in the interior design departments of major car manufacturers in Germany.

Personal Information

  • Full Name: Thomas Andrew
  • Current Position: CEO at CarSilk company
  • Date of Birth: May 26, 1984
  • Education: Bachelor's Degree
  • Alma Mater: Emily Carr University of Art + Design
  • Hometown: Acton, town of Halton Hills, in Halton Region, Ontario, Canada
  • Current Residence: Ontario, Canada
  • Gender: Male
  • Occupation: Entrepreneur, Leather Artisan

 Career Objectives

Short-term goals: 
In the short term, my goal is to actively contribute to the development of high-quality automotive interior leather products at Carsilk, ensuring they meet the strict standards of aesthetics, durability, and comfort. I aim to improve production processes, enhance work efficiency, and assist in expanding the product range of the brand. Alongside the team, I hope to create leather interior designs that align with market trends and customer requirements, while maintaining the superior quality that Carsilk is known for.
Long-term goal: 
In the long term, I aspire to become a leading expert at Carsilk in the design and production of automotive interior leather, contributing to the brand's sustainable growth and innovation. My goal is to help Carsilk not only maintain its exceptional quality but also pioneer the use of eco-friendly manufacturing technologies and create groundbreaking leather interior products. I hope to play a key role in establishing Carsilk as a symbol of innovation, prestige, and high-quality craftsmanship in the global automotive industry, while also expanding our network of partners and clients.

 

Work Experience

Leather Craftsman | AutoLeatherWorks
2009 – 2014

  • Gained hands-on experience in designing, cutting, stitching, and finishing leather for automotive interiors.
  • Contributed to the creation of luxurious leather products, focusing on precision and durability.
  • Worked closely with senior designers to ensure high-quality standards.
  • Managed inventory and ensured the quality of materials used in automotive interior production.

My extensive experience with leading automotive interior companies in Germany, combined with my leadership role at Carsilk, has allowed me to develop a deep understanding of the leather industry and the needs of the luxury market.

Leather Design and Production Manager | CarCraft Interiors
2014 – 2017

  • Led and coordinated with suppliers and vendors to source premium materials.
  • Developed new manufacturing techniques to improve production.
  • Collaborated with the design team to create bespoke leather products for automotive interiors, ensuring both aesthetic and functional requirements were met.

Premium Leather Specialist | AutoInterior GmbH
2017 – 2020

  • Led the design and production of premium leather interiors for German automotive brands.
  • Collaborated closely with engineers and designers to integrate leather into creative interior concepts.
  • Implemented process improvements to enhance efficiency.
  • Worked with clients to ensure their specific needs and design requirements were met.

March 2020 – Present

  • Leads strategic direction and overall operations at Carsilk, specializing in high-quality leather products for automotive interiors.
  • Oversees the design, development, and manufacturing of leather components for luxury vehicles, ensuring they meet the highest standards of quality and sustainability.
  • Drives innovation in sustainable leather production techniques, positioning Carsilk as a leader in environmentally-friendly leather manufacturing.
  • Manages key client relationships, collaborating with major automotive manufacturers to provide custom leather interiors tailored to their needs.
  • Leads a team of experts, providing mentorship and fostering a culture of craftsmanship and excellence.

Certifications and Courses Attended

  • Advanced Leather Craftsmanship Training
  • Leadership in Manufacturing Management Program
  • Automotive Interior Design and Manufacturing Course
  • Sustainable Leather Production Certification
  • Quality Control and Process Optimization for Automotive Interiors Certification
  • Certified Sustainability Professional

Skills

  • Handicraft specialist
  • Business Management & Leadership
  • Customer Relations & Customization skills

Aspirations

  • The desire to become an excellent leader brings Carsilk further development
  • Making Carsilk a leading automotive leather manufacturing brand.