Ford Reorganizes APAC Operations, naming Chen Anning CEO

IIA learned from Ford Motor Company on Wednesday (Oct. 24) that Ford repositioned its global business, positioning China and North America at the company's two core markets, and Ford China upgraded to an independently operated business unit. Chen Anning rejoined Ford to become the vice president of Ford Motor Company Group and the president and CEO of Ford China, responsible for the Chinese business. Peter Fleet, group vice president and president Ford Asia Pacific, will be responsible for establishing a new international market business unit.

According to the plan, Ford Motor Company is to upgrade Ford China to be an independent business unit in an all-round way, and it will report directly to the HQ. The new international market business unit mentioned above will be originally composed of other Asia Pacific markets outside of China, and will embrace more international markets in the future.

Jim Hackett, president and CEO, said, "In order to achieve a long-term success of the company, the Chinese market together with the North American market will act as the company's two core business unit worldwide. The strategic initiatives announced today represent our latest commitment to the Chinese market. Today’s actions will also accelerate Ford's redefinition of its business in China and international markets, and will enhance the company's business performance in these regions."

Ford Motor Company's business in China will be taken over by Chen Anning. He is an automotive executive with a successful Chinese market experience. Prior to this position, Chen served as CEO, Chery Automobile, Ltd. and Chairman of the Board of Directors, Chery Jaguar Land Rover, Automotive, China. After rejoining Ford, he will serve as vice president of Ford Motor Company Group, president and CEO of Ford China, effective November 1, focusing on the sustainable development of China's business. He will lead the company's operations in Greater China, including all import and joint venture operations.

Ford is working to improve its industry leadership in electrification, autonomous driving and intelligent mobile travel, and to become the most trusted company worldwide. In this transformation process, China and North America will become the most important markets for the company. " Jim Hackett added.