Ford of Europe chairman to head joint-venture in China

Ford  named Ford of Europe Chairman Steven Armstrong as president of the Changan Ford joint venture in China, effective Oct. 1. He replaces Nigel Harris, who is retiring after 34 years with the automaker, Automotive News reads.

Armstrong, 55, previously was president of Ford Europe, Middle East and Africa; president of Ford South America; COO of Getrag-Ford Transmissions; and held various roles with Jaguar and Volvo when the brands were under Ford ownership.

“Steve’s leadership will help us further strengthen the Changan Ford JV as we bring more new vehicles to the China market, including our first global all-electric small SUV,” Ford CEO Jim Hackett said in a statement. “His deep understanding of Ford and the automotive industry and keen ability to build productive relationships with partners and employees around the globe will serve us well as we drive Ford’s growth in China.”

Ford has struggled recently in China, with second-quarter sales falling 22 percent from the same period a year ago. But the automaker noted that sales of Changan Ford brand vehicles recorded two consecutive months of more than 30 percent increases in May and June.

Ford said Armstrong’s responsibilities in Europe will be distributed among Ford of Europe President Stuart Rowley and others on the regional team.