Purposeful leadership has always been central to C12’s mission, and as C12 Greater Detroit continues to grow, we’re excited to welcome a new chair who embodies that calling. On December 12, Stu Smith will officially step into his role as a C12 Chair, and on February 18, 2026, he will launch his first advisory group for Christian CEOs and business owners across the Greater Detroit area.
Stu’s arrival strengthens our mission with decades of professional experience and a deep commitment to Christ-centered mentorship.
Q&A with Stu—Leadership, Calling, and the Vision for C12 Greater Detroit
Stu brings over 30 years of experience across globally recognized organizations, including Ford Motor Company, McDonnell Douglas, and Disneyland. His background spans automotive marketing and field sales, aerospace supplier contracts, and operations within world-class organizations known for excellence and execution.
Most recently, before joining C12, Stu served as a career transition coach with Right Management, helping professionals navigate job changes, career pivots, entrepreneurship, and retirement trends. He also served as an operations and leadership development consultant with PCS-Global, a Northville-based leadership consultancy.
We invited Stu to share more about his background, leadership philosophy, and vision for C12 Greater Detroit.
Q: Your career includes Ford, McDonnell Douglas, and Disneyland. What moments most shaped the leader you are today?
A: At Disney, I learned that every person matters—every role contributes to a world-class guest experience. At McDonnell Douglas, I discovered that anyone can add value when they bring fresh eyes, even an intern. At Ford, I saw that legacy organizations still rely on individual innovation to survive. Ultimately, I learned that business is always about people—one vehicle, one customer, one relationship at a time.
Q: After decades helping leaders find their calling, what patterns do you see when people align their work with God’s purpose?
A: Alignment is intentional. Leaders who walk in God’s purpose seek Him through Scripture, prayer, the Holy Spirit, and community—worship, serving, small groups, and peer advisory groups. They choose to apply their faith personally and professionally and stay attentive to where God is already at work around them.
Q: How would you describe your personal philosophy of purposeful leadership?
A: Our culture tells us success depends solely on our own effort. God’s economy tells us He provides everything we need. We are stewards, not owners—of our time, skills, and resources. We are meant to live, work, and worship in community, and God positions and equips us for His purposes and the benefit of others.
Q: As you launch your first C12 group in Greater Detroit, what kind of environment do you hope to create?
A: A growth-minded, humble, collaborative environment. A table where trust is built, relationships deepen, conversations are honest, and members are committed—to each other and to God’s greater purpose for their businesses. A life-giving atmosphere marked by learning and camaraderie.
Q: What encouragement would you offer Christian business leaders feeling tension between business demands and spiritual growth?
A: C12 affirms that God has an eternal plan for each believer—and that plan includes their business. When leaders join C12, they link arms with peers who are pursuing full alignment across all areas of life. With biblical principles, intentional activation, and wise guidance, that alignment transforms their business, their life, and everyone they influence.
A Heart for Mentoring, Discipleship, and Purposeful Leadership
Stu’s leadership flows from one central place—his relationship with Christ. For decades, he has invested in people through mentoring, discipleship, and intentional presence. From leading men’s small groups and co-developing discipleship curriculum to serving in youth ministry and participating in mission trips to Mexico and Rwanda, Stu lives out a steady, hands-on commitment to helping others grow in faith.
His pastoral heart also shows up in unexpected places—like officiating weddings and walking alongside couples as they prepare for a lifelong covenant. Whether in church settings or professional environments, Stu brings a grounded, relational approach centered on helping others discover the good works God has prepared for them.
One verse has been an anchor throughout his journey: Ephesians 2:10—“For we are God’s masterpiece… created anew in Christ Jesus to do the good things he planned for us long ago.”
So central, in fact, that his license plate simply reads: EPH2TEN.
Rooted in Family and Community
Stu and his wife, Tracey, have been married for 34 years and make their home in Northville, Michigan. Their three adult children—Connor (wife Sarah and son Franklin), Jacob (wife Katherine), and Emma (husband Brock)—all live nearby, reflecting a close-knit family life that shapes Stu’s view of leadership.
For him, purposeful leadership begins at home and naturally extends into business, church, and community. His story is a testament to a life lived with intentionality, faith, and a deep desire to help others walk in the calling God designed for them.
Join Stu’s New C12 Group
Stu’s first C12 advisory group will provide a space where CEOs and owners can gain clarity, accountability, and biblical perspective while growing as leaders, stewards, and disciples.
If you’re a Christian business leader in the Greater Detroit area seeking purposeful leadership, peer accountability, and spiritual growth alongside business excellence, this is your opportunity. Reach out today to start the conversation and explore whether C12 is the right fit for your leadership journey.
Tom Rivers
Principal Chair
