Ford Taps Farley to Lead European Operations

Ford names Jim Farley vice president and president-Europe, Middle East and Africa, as the automaker announces a series of leadership changes.

Farley, 52, currently serves as executive vice president-Global Marketing, Sales & Service, a position he has held since 2007. He replaces Stephen Odell, who was appointed executive vice president-Global Marketing Sales and Service. Both Farley and Odell will continue to report to CEO Mark Fields.

“We are excited to see Jim and Stephen take on these new roles as they bring unique skills, experience and fresh perspectives to these critical positions,” Fields says in a statement. “These moves also underscore our commitment to develop our senior leaders through deep experience within both our business units and our global skill teams.”

In his new role, Farley will be responsible for accelerating Ford’s revitalization plan in Europe, where the automaker has struggled to return to profitability. Ford says the move is subject to immigration approval.

Odell will focus on building the Ford and Lincoln brands globally. Ford yesterday opened its first three Lincoln stores in China as it seeks to expand the marque beyond North America.

Ford also announces Nick Smither, group vice president and Chief Information Officer, will retire after more than 34 years of service. Smither will be succeeded by Marcy Klevorn, currently director-Office of the Chief Information Officer.

Klevorn, 55, will oversee the information technology services and strategy for the automaker’s global operations.

Robert Brown, vice president-Sustainability, Environment & Safety Engineering, also has elected to retire after more than 35 years of service. Succeeding Brown is Kim Pittel, currently executive director-Global Supplier Technical Assistance.

All retirements and appointments are effective Jan. 1.

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