Ford announces leadership changes

Ford Motor Company has announced global leadership changes as it continues to redesign company operations for long-term success.

‘As we develop our strategy to become the most trusted mobility company, designing smart vehicles for a smart world, we will continue to reshape the organization to deliver the most value for our customers and all of our stakeholders,’ said Jim Hackett, president and CEO.

‘The changes we are announcing today will further align resources and improve efficiencies throughout our global markets and operations. At the same time, I want to recognize the truly significant contributions of the senior leaders departing from Ford and thank them for their many years of service.’

In Global Markets, Kumar Galhotra is named group vice president, Lincoln and chief marketing officer, effective 1 November. He will report to Jim Farley, executive vice president and president, Global Markets. In this expanded position, Kumar will continue to lead the transformation of Lincoln as a world-class luxury brand, a role he has held since September 2014.

At the same time, Stephen Odell, executive vice president, Global Marketing, Sales and Service has elected to retire, after 37 years of service at Ford.

Further appointments include Linda Cash, leading Quality and New Model Launch, succeeding Bennie Fowler who is retiring after serving 27 years at Ford. Dale Wishnousky will now be leading Manufacturing, Ford of Europe, succeeding Cash. Birgit Behrendt is named to a newly created position leading Joint Ventures, Alliances and Commercial Affairs, Ford of Europe and Lisa Drake is to lead Global Powertrain Purchasing and Global Purchasing Operations, succeeding Behrendt.

Kiersten Robinson to act as interim Human Resources leader. John Casesa elects to leave Ford as the company realigns global strategy. Joy Falotico, Ford Credit chairman and CEO, and group vice president of Ford Motor company now reports to Ford CEO Jim Hackett.

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