Tell us about your role as General Manager, Global Truck - what are some of the projects you're working on and what makes you excited about what you're doing?
As general manager for global truck, I oversee the Ford Ranger, Ranger Raptor, Ford Everest and now Ranger Super Duty vehicle lines. This is a really exciting time for our team as we expand our lineup to include the first plug-in hybrid (PHEV) Ranger. We also have recently launched our Everest Tremor series in Australia to overwhelmingly positive feedback from both media and customers.
What are a few of your favorite roles that you've had in your career and why?
My first international assignment had a profound impact on both my personal and professional life. From 1999 to 2002, I worked as a PD Program Analyst in Hiroshima, Japan, where I was part of the team launching the Ford Escape in the Asia Pacific region. Collaborating with the Japanese team at Mazda was an invaluable learning experience, particularly in process discipline. On a personal level, it gave me a new perspective on the world and my place in it, and I formed lifelong friendships with my colleagues—one of whom was even a bridesmaid at my wedding.
Another memorable chapter of my career was my time in China. Like Japan, being in China required a deep commitment to the Ford OS Behavior of Collaboration as we were a joint venture and required alignment from both parent companies to achieve our goals. Over five years, we launched 15 products and achieved the ambitious target of 1 million sales by 2015.
What is one thing your Ford colleagues probably don’t know about you?
Many of my colleagues might not know I hold dual degrees in Mathematics (BS/MS) and spent six years teaching part-time at community colleges in Atlanta and Detroit. Teaching has always been a passion of mine, especially when it comes to mentoring young people—particularly first-generation college students who are navigating unfamiliar academic environments. In 2016, I co-founded the Melvin Webb STEM Endowment at Clark Atlanta University, an initiative designed to support first-generation STEM students.
Who inspires you? Why?
I am inspired everyday by the people I work with, but if I had to pick just one person, it would have to be my daughter. She is incredibly smart, she has a deep love of learning, and is always open to trying new things. She brings joy to those around her with her great sense of humor, and her empathy and kindness remind me of the importance of compassion in everything we do. Most of all, I admire her drive—she truly wants to be the best at whatever she sets her mind to. Watching her grow and push herself motivates me to continue learning, evolving, and striving to be the best version of myself.
How do you find balance outside of work? Do you have a particular hobby you enjoy?
For me, true balance comes from the people I hold close—my family and friends. No matter how tough a day at work might be, I know I can always return home to a place where I’m appreciated and supported. Travel is one of my greatest passions. It’s not just about seeing new places, but about discovering new perspectives and experiences.
Do you have a favorite quote or motto?
Maya Angelou famously said, "When people show you who they are, believe them the first time." This powerful reminder has resonated with me both personally and professionally.
Tell me about some life experiences that helped shape you personally and/or professionally.
One of my most significant life experiences was receiving a full academic STEM scholarship to attend Clark Atlanta University (CAU), a distinguished HBCU in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S. At CAU, I learned that my dreams were not only possible, but achievable. The university’s mottos—"Find a Way or Make One" and "Culture for Service"—have stayed with me throughout my career, reminding me to approach every challenge with determination and a commitment to service. Another pivotal moment was my first international assignment in 1999, when I worked in Hiroshima, Japan for Ford (at Mazda's HQ). As a girl from a small town in Georgia, the opportunity to live, work, and immerse myself in the unique culture of Japan was life changing. This experience not only prepared me to embrace future opportunities abroad, but it also gave me invaluable insights into connecting with the diverse customers we serve through our global portfolio of products.
Tell us about your new appointment for National Advisory Council of ForbesBLK. What are you most looking forward to in the role?
Earlier this year, the team at Forbes Magazine asked me to join the ForbesBLK National Advisory Council, a global community of Black entrepreneurs, professionals, leaders, and creators who are driving systemic change in business, culture, and society. ForbesBLK focuses on best-in-class editorial content and community experiences that advance representation and inclusion.
With regards to your appointment for National Advisory Council of ForbesBLK, what makes this cause so important to you and why?
Joining the Forbes BLK National Advisory Council is important to me because it provides access to valuable content and insights that drive meaningful conversations. The forums create a space for diverse perspectives, fostering innovation and collaboration. Being part of this network allows me to contribute, learn, and help amplify voices that deserve to be heard.
If a young woman in IMG came to you and asked for your advice on how to achieve the type of success you've had in your career, what would your advice be to her?
Identify where you want to be in five years and create a clear plan to get there. Share your plan with a respected mentor who can help you assess whether it aligns with the company’s objectives and also whether it’s a realistic plan based on your skillset. Consistently meet deadlines and deliver high-quality work. Be proactive in understanding and supporting your manager’s priorities before being asked. Join and actively participate in an Employee Resource Group (ERG) to expand and diversify your network. Secure a sponsor who will champion your growth.
And finally, what’s something that might be surprising about you?
I live by the three Fs in my life: Faith, Family, and Ford. I prioritize them in that order. If I had to choose a 4th F, it would be football. I am a huge fan of college and professional football.
GO DAWGS! 🐾