Ford Announces New Chief of Corporate Affairs

Dearborn, Mich.-based Ford Motor Co. announced this week that the Board of Directors has elected Ziad S. Ojakli, a former White House advisor, group vice president of corporate affairs.

Ojakli was the principal deputy for legislative affairs, serving as the president's chief liaison to the United States Senate. He managed daily interactions for the White House with senators. He was involved in strategy and policy development, and coordinated legislative strategy with administration agencies and cabinet departments.

"Ziad brings strong Washington experience to Ford, and I welcome him to the company," said Bill Ford, chairman and chief executive officer for Ford. "He will enhance our management team and the company's ability to continue to be a world-class leader in the industry."

Ojakli, 36, will have responsibility for governmental affairs, Washington affairs and the company's corporate relations activities, which includes the Ford Motor Co. Fund. He will report to Ford vice chairman Allan Gilmour and be based in Washington D.C. His appointment is effective February 1.