From The Horses Mouth: Francis Announces Resignation From Ford

DEARBORN, Mich., July 3 - Karen C. Francis, a company vice president and president and CEO of ConsumerConnect, announced today she is leaving Ford Motor Company on Aug. 1 to pursue other opportunities. She will become a consultant to Ford on e-business related activities.

Francis, 39, came to Ford in 2001 from Internet Capital Group. Prior to that she was general manager of Oldsmobile Division, General Motors Corporation.

"Karen has been instrumental in developing and implementing solid e-business strategies and initiatives for Ford," said Nick Scheele, president and chief operating officer, Ford Motor Company.

"Over the past year, Karen has successfully laid the groundwork for the integration of many of these e-business activities and technologies into the company's core operations, helping drive revenue and reduce costs. Karen's leadership and contributions will be missed."

Francis added, "ConsumerConnect has made significant contributions to Ford. We have spent the last year integrating the ventures and technologies into the basic business. Now is the perfect time to transition fully. That accomplished, it is also the best time for me to leave Ford to pursue other opportunities."

ConsumerConnect's e-business strategy and integration activities, customer relationship centers and dealer services will be combined with Global Marketing. Worldwide Direct Market Operations and the coordination of ConsumerConnect's various joint ventures will report directly to Kathleen Ligocki, vice president, North America Marketing.