Ford Names Marissa West VP of Vehicle Programs

Ford Motor Company announced that Marissa West will join the company as vice president of vehicle programs, effective November 16. She will lead vehicle program and program operations teams, supporting vehicle development and integration, program execution and global product programs across Ford’s portfolio. 

Ford expects to refresh 70% of its global vehicle portfolio by volume by 2029 and West’s appointment strengthens the company’s leadership overseeing the development and delivery of its next generation of vehicles. 

“Marissa brings deep experience leading vehicle programs, integrating complex products and delivering successful launches,” Ford Vice President of Advanced Product Development, Cycle Planning & Programs Sam Basile said. “Her leadership and product-development background will be valuable as we work across teams to bring great vehicles and experiences to customers.” 

West joins Ford from OPmobility, where she served as executive vice president and chairperson for the North America business. Marissa WestFord Motor CompanyEarlier in her career, she held leadership positions in vehicle sales, service and marketing, as well as product development, at General Motors, including senior vice president and president for North America. She brings more than 20 years of automotive and vehicle engineering experience, with much of her career focused on vehicle programs, integration and launches. 

“I’m honored to join Ford, a company with a proud legacy and an exciting future,” West said. “I’m eager to get close to the product, collaborate with talented teams around the world and help deliver vehicles and experiences that matter to customers.” 

West earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Michigan State University and a master of science in engineering from the University of Michigan.