Ford's Australian and New Zealand arm have announced a new president and CEO for the region in the form of Kay Hart [pictured below].
Hart, a New Zealander, walks into the role with a raft of previous experience with the blue oval. This includes being the manufacturer's global Battery and Electric Vehicle (BEV) manager, as part of Ford's 'Team Edison' project.
This focused (ha, Ford pun) on bringing BEV platforms into the customer space all around the world. Hart also carries experience as a former managing director of Ford Philippines, and as an Advanced Consumer Experience Marketing Manager.
“I am excited to come back to Asia Pacific and work with such a strong and accomplished Ford Australia and New Zealand team,” says Hart.
“I’m looking forward to working with our dealers and team to continue the great progress that has been made in the consumer experience and helping accelerate growth across the business.”
“Kay is a proven leader, highly motivated by consumer insights and dealer relations,” adds Ford Asia Pacific group vice president and president, Peter Fleet.
“She has broad experience across the company and around the globe. With strong knowledge and relationships in Australia and New Zealand, Kay will be a wonderful addition to our leadership team and a strong advocate for our customers and dealers.”
Hart will replace Graeme Whickman, who ends a 20-year tenure as the Ford Australia and New Zealand president and CEO today.
Under his leadership, Ford's had to evolve and adapt through a series of changes. The rise and fall of Australian manufacturing, the successful acquisition of the Mustang to the Oceanic line-up in 2015, and now the wild success of the Ranger pick-up on both sides of the ditch are among the brand's biggest stories in recent years.
“I know I leave a much stronger Ford Australia and New Zealand than only a few years ago, a company that has a strong and vibrant future,” says Whickman.
“The industry is undergoing rapid change, and I have confidence the local leadership teams have the right plans in place to be successful. They will continue to be held up in the Global Ford world as great examples of what happens when good focused strategies are supported by committed and skilful employees and dealers.”