Doug Field, the Chief Electric Vehicle, Digital, and Design Officer at Ford Motor Company, is set to leave the automaker as part of a broader executive restructuring initiative. On Wednesday, Ford confirmed Field’s decision to depart, effective over the next month, marking a significant moment in the company’s transition. Although details of his next endeavors remain private, Field expressed enthusiasm for the future during a media call.
This announcement coincides with Ford revealing a revamped executive framework that introduces a new “Product Creation and Industrialization” organization. This division, headed by veteran Ford executive and COO Kumar Galhotra, aims to streamline operations by integrating Field’s previous responsibilities into the company’s global Industrial System group. This restructuring aligns with Ford’s ambitious “Ford+” business strategy, which targets an 8% adjusted EBIT margin by 2029.
“This transition is crucial for Ford as we move into the next chapter,” said Ford CEO Jim Farley during the call. He emphasized that the organizational changes are expected to enhance the company’s capacity to meet key objectives in the coming years. As Ford gears up to unveil a new lineup of electric vehicles, including a midsize pickup built on its forthcoming “Universal Electric Vehicle” (UEV) platform, the need for streamlined leadership is critical.
Field’s exit comes during a pivotal period for Ford, which is preparing to launch its next generation of EVs. Farley highlighted the significance of these vehicles, stating they are as pivotal as the iconic Model T in the company’s history. Both Farley and Field assured the media that the upcoming UEV pickup truck is positioned for success within the new organizational structure.
The newly established Product Creation and Industrialization unit is described as an “end-to-end organization” aimed at executing one of the most extensive product, software, and services rollouts in Ford’s history. The automaker plans to refresh 80% of its North American portfolio and 70% of its global portfolio by 2029, targeting significant updates across various models, from the UEV pickup to the next-generation F-150 and F-Series Super Duty lineup.
Farley remarked, “This is the heart and soul of our transformation over the next couple of years.” He added that the new structure positions Ford to respond swiftly to market demands, reduce internal complexity, and enhance the quality and efficiency of its products. By 2030, Ford anticipates that 90% of its global nameplates will offer electrified powertrains, underscoring its commitment to innovation in the EV space.
Despite Field’s contributions and the praise he received from Ford executives upon his hiring in 2021, the company has faced challenges in executing its software and EV initiatives. Notably, Ford experienced significant revenue shortfalls in its software division, leading to a $19.5 billion write-down associated with adjusting its EV strategies. In contrast, its nearest competitor, General Motors, reported only $7.6 billion in similar charges.
In addition to Field’s departure, Ford announced several advancements in its product development and European manufacturing sectors, signaling a consolidated approach aimed at delivering high-quality vehicles and digital experiences at scale. “With this unified organization, we’re better positioned than ever,” Galhotra affirmed, underlining the strategic shift Ford is undertaking.
As Ford continues to navigate a rapidly evolving automotive landscape, these leadership changes reflect its commitment to growth and innovation in the electric vehicle sector, reinforcing its role as a key player in the industry’s future.
Original Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2026/04/15/ford-ev-leader-doug-field.html
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Publish Date: 2026-04-16 02:41:00
