Bolstered by more than 40 years of professional experience, Joseph Samuel Folz II is distinguished in the legal and automotive industries, culminating in his most recent role as the vice president and general counsel at Porsche Cars North America Inc. Retired since 2019, Mr. Folz initially joined Porsche in 2010 and was responsible for delivering legal guidance to all areas of the company and remaining up-to-date on trade regulation developments.
Notably, Mr. Folz played a pivotal role in bringing the Porsche Experience Center to fruition, a pioneering initiative that involved the construction of a building and two test tracks where customers can drive their chosen Porsche. Likewise, during his tenure, he founded the Atlanta Aerotropolis Alliance, which aims to promote economic development in Southside Atlanta, Georgia, as well as served on the board of directors of the Atlanta Airport Chamber of Commerce and the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce.
Earlier in his career, Mr. Folz served with numerous other automotive companies, such as Chevrolet, General Motors and Volkswagen of America Inc. While working for Volkswagen, he was recognized as the executive vice president of corporate relations, general counsel and secretary from 1979 to 2008, where he also successfully represented Volkswagen in several legal matters.
Inspired by his paternal grandfather to enter the field of law, Mr. Folz attended Kalamazoo College and received a Bachelor of Arts in economics and business administration in 1975. Subsequently, he graduated from the University of Michigan Law School with a Doctor of Jurisprudence in 1978 and was admitted to practice law by the State Bar of Michigan in 1979. Mr. Folz was also eligible to practice law in Virginia and Georgia.
Looking toward the future, Mr. Folz intends to continue enjoying his retirement while making meaningful contributions to his community in Bonita Springs, Florida.