Steve St. Andre, chairman and founder of Shift Digital, is a pioneer in the digital marketing space, delivering measurably successful marketing solutions to several major automotive brands. St. Andre launched Shift Digital in response to the ever-increasing need for brands to generate, measure, and close leads from disparate marketing channels. The firm launched in 2008, during the Great Recession, when the automotive sector was experiencing distress. Shift Digital, under St. Andre’s leadership, focused on providing mission-critical services to these organizations.

Shift Digital’s efforts provided vital support to automotive companies and helped propel the firm through tough times. St. Andre stated in an interview with Crain’s, “We anticipated some tough times, but not what we witnessed. We’re right between an agency and a software company. Our specialty is lead generation.” It was the solution that the automotive industry needed. By 2023, Shift Digital had grown to more than 600 employees, serving more than 20 top automotive brands in North America and Europe. With annual revenue pushing $300 million, the firm serves as an efficient sales tool for thousands of retailers around the globe.

St. Andre initiated his professional career with a bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Michigan State University. He also earned an MBA from the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan. From there, St. Andre went on to become a successful serial entrepreneur. Prior to launching Shift Digital, St. Andre was a member of the initial startup team that created FordDirect.com. During his eight-year tenure, he served as company president and CEO, leading the company to substantial profitability and growth while delivering 20 percent of Ford Motor Company’s U.S. retail sales through the channel.

St. Andre has been recognized as part of Crain’s 40 under 40. He is also a philanthropist and an avid supporter of MSU.