Ford Motor Company announced key executive appointments, effective April 1, within the senior leadership team of its Asia Pacific unit.
Mei-Wei Cheng has been elected group vice president, Ford Motor Company, and named executive chairman of Ford Motor China. Cheng previously served as chairman and CEO of Ford Motor China. He will continue to report to John Parker, executive vice president, Ford Motor Company's Asia Pacific and Africa business region.
"Mei-Wei is an exceptional leader who has been pivotal to the success we're experiencing within our China operations today," said Alan Mulally, Ford president and CEO. "He has led the team responsible for growing Ford's brand and product presence in China, making Ford one of the fastest growing automakers in that market during the past few years. I look forward to his continued leadership in this region, which is extremely important to Ford."
In his new role, Cheng will be responsible for Ford Motor China's business strategy, as well as strengthening strategic partnerships and government relations.
Robert J. Graziano, currently executive vice president for Mazda Motor Corporation, has been appointed president and CEO, Ford Motor China. In his new role, Graziano, who continues as a Ford Motor Company vice president, will assume direct responsibility for the operations and business leadership of Ford Motor China. Graziano will remain a representative director on Mazda's board of directors.