Wednesday, October 08, 2008
Ford names new marketing and customer service directors
Ford of Britain has announced two new directors for its leadership team in the UK, which is Ford's second largest global market after the US.
Marketing move
Mark Simpson becomes marketing director this month, succeeding Mark Ovenden who moves to Russia as marketing, sales and service director in Europe's fastest growing market.
Mark Simpson had been marketing communications director, Ford of Europe, where he was responsible for developing the advertising and marketing campaigns for Europe's 51 markets. He previously held senior management positions in the US for six years, most recently as New York's Lincoln Mercury regional manager. From 1996 he was managing director of Ford Hungary.
Married with two children, Mark joined Ford in 1985 at the company's Daventry parts distribution centre. He lives in Essex and enjoys music and cooking.
Ford Customer Service Division (FCSD)
Effective this month, Ford customer service is directed by Andy Barratt, former district sales manager, taking over from John Cooper, who becomes FCSD's European operations director.
Prior to leading sales teams for five years in the eastern district most recently and Scotland, Northern Ireland and the North, Andy was Ford Focus brand manager - helping to establish the car as the UK's best seller.
Andy began his Ford career in 1980 as a Dagenham business technician. Living in Essex with his wife and two children, Andy enjoys anything on four wheels and spending time with his family.
Welcoming his colleagues to their new roles, Roelant de Waard, Ford of Britain chairman and managing director, said: "Mark and Andy bring a wealth of experience both internationally and from other functions within the company. Combined with our strongest-ever product line-up, we will continue to perform well in today's market."
DATED: 08.10.08
FEED: AW
