William (Todd) Platt is a senior marketing and business management executive with extensive experience in the automotive industry. He has managed cross-brand advertising programs, directed global marketing for international start-ups, and contributed significantly to all aspects of advertising communications, from primary brands to retail sales. In addition to his successful career, Platt is also an active member of the Detroit area non-profit community, specifically serving on the Board of Directors for Friends of Detroit Rowing, Inc.

Friends of Detroit Rowing, founded in 1839, is the oldest rowing club in North America and is dedicated to promoting and educating people about the sport of rowing throughout Metro Detroit. The organization provides competitive and recreational programs for men and women of all ages and abilities, as well as training opportunities for rowers competing on national, international, and Olympic levels. Sponsored by Friends of Detroit Rowing, a 501c3 organization and a GuideStar Silver Seal of Transparency recipient, the Detroit Boat Club Crew offers racing programs for Junior, U23, Masters, and Para-athletes.

Platt has served as a Board Member for Friends of Detroit Rowing since January 2009 and has held various positions on the Board, including past Board President, Vice President, and Secretary. Currently, he serves as the Marketing Communications Chair and Building & Site Assessment/Master Plan Lead.

One of Platt’s significant contributions to Friends of Detroit Rowing was directing the request for qualifications (RFQ) and request for proposal (RFP) phases, which resulted in the processing of 13 RFQ submissions and five RFPs. Platt managed and completed the identification of project requirements and final contract agreement. Currently, he is directing the Assessment and Master Plan process as the lead project coordinator between the consultant, FODR Board, and Belle Isle Stakeholders.

Apart from his work with Friends of Detroit Rowing, Platt has held several other positions in the automotive industry, including Director – Global Business Development and Director – Global Market Services at Ford Motor Company. In his role as Director of Global Business Development, Platt was responsible for identifying new market opportunities and developing strategic partnerships. As Director of Global Market Services, he established a repeatable process for the identification of market-specific digital marketing retail solutions and services.

William (Todd) Platt’s contributions to Friends of Detroit Rowing have helped the organization grow and continue to promote and educate people about the sport of rowing. His extensive experience in marketing and business management has also helped Friends of Detroit Rowing navigate through the challenges faced by non-profit organizations. Platt’s dedication to Friends of Detroit Rowing and the Detroit area non-profit community is an inspiration to all.