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Ford EV and tech chief leaving automaker
Doug Field, Ford's EV and tech leader, is leaving the automaker amid a leadership reorganization aimed at enhancing its EV and software strategy. His departure follows a significant tenure starting in 2021, and his role in evolving Ford's tech stack will now transition to a new ‘product creation and industrialization’ team led by COO Kumar Galhotra.
Key points
- Doug Field announced his departure from Ford during a company reorganization.
- He joined Ford in 2021 to lead EV and technology initiatives.
- Field reported directly to CEO Jim Farley, overseeing Ford's embedded software and hardware operations.
- His responsibilities included vehicle controls, driver assistance technology, and vehicle cybersecurity.
- Under Field's leadership, Ford split its business into three units, including the EV division.
- A new 'product creation and industrialization' team will now oversee these operations.
- The reorganization aims for an 8% profit margin by 2029 and to refresh 80% of the North American vehicle portfolio.
Why it matters
- Ford's transition reflects a broader trend in the automotive industry toward electric vehicles and digital technology integration.
- Field's background in Silicon Valley echoes the tech industry's influence on traditional automakers, particularly in development and innovation.
- This strategic shift parallels other companies like GM and Tesla that are aggressively pursuing EV markets as part of their long-term growth strategies.
Field's departure marks a significant shakeup in Ford's strategy as it navigates the competitive EV landscape, emphasizing the importance of leadership continuity in achieving ambitious growth targets.