Today the Ford Motor Company announced a number of changes in its senior leadership team as it continues to push its One Ford plan for profitable growth through the focus on new products, a strong brand, and increased cost efficiency.
Jim Farley, who currently serves as executive vice president of Global Marketing of Sales & Service, has been appointed executive vice president and president of Europe, Middle East and Africa. He will continue to report to Ford’s president and chief executive officer Mark Fields.
“We are excited to see Jim … take on this new roles as he brings unique skills, experience and fresh perspectives to these critical positions,” said Fields. “These moves also underscore our commitment to develop our senior leaders through deep experience within both our business units and our global skill teams.”
Farley’s new responsibilities will be to continue leading and accelerating Ford’s transformation in Europe, which includes the One Ford Plan. (Interestingly, this position is dependent on immigration approval.)
“Jim has done an excellent job improving our brand image around the world,” added Fields. “Jim’s commitment and passion for building the Ford and Lincoln brands have enabled us to connect with customers in new and innovative ways. He will have an opportunity to apply that same passion to build on the success of our products today in Europe and grow our business in the Middle East and Africa regions.”
In addition, Stephen Odell has been appointed executive vice president of Global Marketing for Sales and Service. Currently serving as executive vice president and president of Europe, Middle East and Africa, Odell will also continue to report to Mark Fields. Odell’s new role will have him building the Ford and Lincoln brands globally by transforming the retail experience for customers and through innovative new digital communications.
“Under Stephen’s leadership, our European transformation plan is well under way, and we are poised to profitably grow as the region emerges from a long downturn,” said Fields. “Stephen also was instrumental in turning around Volvo and Mazda by reinvigorating their product lines, improving their brands and addressing cost and capacity issues. He brings a wealth of global experience in marketing, sales and service to his new assignment.”
In Ford retirement news, the group vice president and Chief Information Officer, Nick Smither, is retiring and will be succeeded by Marcy Klevorn, who is currently the director of the Office of the Chief Information Officer.
Additionally, the vice president of Sustainability, Environment & Safety Engineering, Robert Brown will retire after 35 years at Ford. His successor will be Kim Pittel, who is currently the executive director of Global Supplier Technical Assistance.
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