The new president of Ford Australia is a Kiwi

Monday, 2 July 2018

New Zealander Kay Hart has been announced as the new President and CEO of Ford Australia and New Zealand effective immediately.

A New Zealander who cut her teeth with Ford marketing in New Zealand is now in charge of the brand's affairs in this part of the world.

Kay Hart, the daughter of celebrated former All Blacks' coach John Hart, started out in the Ford New Zealand marketing department in 1998 and has today been announced as president and chief executive officer of Ford New Zealand and Australia, effective immediately.

Hart will be based in Ford's Melbourne headquarters.

The Dearborn-based brand said the appointment is part of senior leadership team changes in Australia as the firm 'continues its transformation in Australia and New Zealand.'

Hart replaces Graeme Whickman who has ended a 20-year stint with Ford to become managing director and chief executive officer of GUD Holdings Limited, whose portfolio spans automotive aftermarket product lines and water products.

Kay Hart replaces 20-year Ford veteran Graeme Whickman, who also did time at Ford New Zealand in a managerial position.

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She will be based in Melbourne, reporting to Peter Fleet, Ford group vice president and president, Ford Asia Pacific.

'Kay is a proven leader, highly motivated by consumer insights and dealer relations,' said 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 has also worked in a number of positions at Ford, including managing director for Ford Philippines from 2013 to 2015.

Most recently, Hart was the global BEV manager, distribution and digital experience, in in Ford's Team Edison, which is focused primarily on rapidly designing and implementing 'new holistic customer-focused BEV services and ownership experiences.'

Hart said she is excited by her new role and the opportunity to 'work with such a strong and accomplished Ford Australia and New Zealand team.

'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.'

In this role, Hart will be responsible for Ford's National Sales Company in Australia and New Zealand, including marketing, sales and service, dealer relations, customer satisfaction and sales performance. She will continue to lead the transformation of Ford's business, including the work to revamp the consumer and dealer experience.