Bill Ford receives EY's Family Business Center of Excellence Special Recognition

DEARBORN, MI -- June 8, 2015: Ernst & Young’s Family Business Center of Excellence has named Bill Ford, executive chairman of Ford Motor Company, as this year’s Special Recognition recipient. The honor distinguishes Ford for his unique resilience, family values and long-term vision that have come to define one of the world’s most iconic and strongest family businesses in the world.

EY on Bill Ford:

Bill Ford, Executive Chairman of Ford Motor Company, has been honored by the EY Global Family Business Center of Excellence as this year’s Special Recognition recipient. The honor distinguishes Ford for his unique resilience, family business values and long-term vision that have come to define one of the world’s most iconic businesses. The EY Global Family Business Center of Excellence recognizes the achievements of business leaders who have taken their family’s legacy to new levels.

Peter Englisch, Global Leader, EY Global Family Business Center of Excellence, says:

“Bill is the latest leader of an iconic family dynasty who has carried forward an exceptional legacy. His family roots prepared him to lead the Ford Motor Company and to ensure its continued longevity.

“With just 10% of all family-owned businesses surviving beyond the second generation, we believe that a family business’ lasting success comes down to clearly defined values and cohesion. Many family businesses have changed the world and led their industries thanks to an exceptional entrepreneurial and innovative spirit that grows stronger through each generation.”

Bill Ford, Executive Chairman of Ford Motor Company, says:

“I am honored to receive this recognition on behalf of the extended family of Ford Motor Company employees, dealers and suppliers around the world. I have been an advocate of the advantages of family involvement in business for years, believing that it benefits not only families and businesses, but also society as a whole.”

The EY Global Family Business Center of Excellence showcases EY’s long and deep commitment to family businesses and provides access to the insights, experience and people they need to grow and succeed for generations. Family-owned firms account for two-thirds of all businesses worldwide and up to 80% of jobs in the majority of countries. These companies are vital to the health of the global economy. Helping them achieve their growth ambitions is just one of the ways EY builds a better working world.