COLOGNE, Germany - Ford of Europe announced today the creation of a new position, which will strengthen its focus on Communications and Public Affairs activities in the growth markets of central and eastern Europe, with the appointment of Dr. Susanne Wegerhoff as Director, Communications and Public Affairs, Central and Eastern Europe Region. Dr. Wegerhoff moves from her current position as Director, Communications and Public Affairs, for Ford-Werke AG, where she has been a member of the Board. In her new role, which is effective September 1, Dr. Wegerhoff will report directly to Joe Greenwell, Vice President, Communications and Public Affairs, Ford of Europe.  

Greenwell said, "I am delighted to be able to appoint someone of Dr. Wegerhoff's experience and stature into this important role. We have created this position because of the importance we attach to the central and eastern Europe region. We have aggressive plans to capitalise on this region's potential, as a key component of our new strategy to transform our European business through product-led demand growth. Effective communications will be an important contributor to this transformation, and Dr. Wegerhoff's appointment will enable us to make the most of our opportunities in this diverse and increasingly significant region."  

Dr. Wegerhoff will be responsible for developing further Ford's communications strategy for the region, working closely with local management teams. The region comprises more than 20 individual markets, including Russia, Turkey, Poland, Austria, Switzerland, Hungary, Greece and the Czech Republic.  

Rolf Zimmermann, Chairman of the Board of Ford-Werke AG, added, "Dr. Wegerhoff has been a highly valued and effective member of the Board since she was appointed as Director of Public Affairs, Ford-Werke in 1997. We congratulate her on her new appointment within the Ford of Europe organization and we are confident she will successfully apply her considerable, experience, drive and enthusiasm in addressing her newest challenge."  

(July 6, 2000)