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Ford Announces Several Senior Leadership Changes

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Ford on Monday announced a number of senior leadership changes affecting its operations in Europe and South America as well as its newly-established Ford Smart Mobility LLC.

Barb Samardzich, the current vice president and COO of Ford of Europe, announced that she intends to retire on October 1st. Including her nearly three years in the role of Ford of Europe Chief Operating Officer, Samardzich has spent 26 years with Ford, fulfilling a number of roles in the United States and Europe.

Samardzich’s past roles include oversight of Global Product Programs and Powertrain Engineering, wherein she was crucial in the development of vehicles for the Ford and Lincoln brands.

“Barb’s leadership and expertise have been critical to the transformation of our Ford of Europe business into a vibrant and profitable organization,” said Mark Fields, Ford president and CEO. “Over the course of her career, she was instrumental in developing our global powertrain lineup, along with guiding the design and engineering of many Ford vehicles including Mustang and F-Series Super Duty. We are grateful for her many contributions and strong leadership over the years.”

Samardzich’s replacement has been named as Steven Armstrong, who will take over the role effective September 1st. Armstrong has been the President of Ford South America since January 2014.

Armstrong’s role will be filled by Lyle Watters, who becomes Vice President, Ford Motor Company and President, Ford South America and effective August 1st and also becomes an elected Ford Motor Company corporate officer effective immediately. Watters is the current CFO and VP of Finance and Strategic Planning for Ford of Europe.

Finally, Ford announced Neil Schloss, Ford Vice President and Treasurer, will also serve in the role of CFO for Ford Smart Mobility LLC., effective August 1st.