Ford revealed recently that Steven Armstrong, presently president of its South American operations, is going to become vice president and chief operating officer for Ford of Europe, succeeding Barb Samardzich, who is about to retire, effective September 1.
Lyle Watters moves from his status as Ford of Europe chief financial officer, to succeed Armstrong in South America, it will be effective from August 1. While Neil Schloss, Ford vice president and treasurer, will be chief monetary officer of Ford Smart Mobility LLC to his tasks, effective August 1.
Samardzich, 57, has played role in several leadership positions in the U.S. and Europe. As chief operating officer from November 2013, she has supervised a number of Ford of Europe’s operations, including production, quality, item development, purchasing, sustainability, environment and safety engineering.
“Barb’s leadership and knowledge have been important to the change of our Ford of Europe company into a dynamic and rewarding company,” states Mark Fields, Ford president and CEO. “Over the course of her career, she contributed in developing our international powertrain lineup, together with assisting the design and engineering of many Ford cars including Mustang and F-Series Super Duty.”
Armstrong, 52, is going to report to Jim Farley, Ford executive vice president and president, Europe, Middle East and Africa. Watters will be reporting to Joe Hinrichs, Ford president of the Americas. Schloss will be reporting to Bob Shanks, the Ford chief financial officer, and Jim Hackett, the chairman of Ford Smart Mobility.
