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2010 Automotive News All-Stars

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In the past year, the industry has endured bankruptcies, the death of brands, massive recalls by Toyota Motor Corp. and a still-shaky sales recovery. Through it all, some individuals didn’t just survive; they thrived. We unveil our annual Automotive News All-Stars, leaders who set the pace in tough times. Ford Motor Co. placed 10 individuals on our list — including CEO Alan Mulally, who is our Industry Leader of the Year for 2010.

PURCHASING: Tony Brown

Group vice president of global purchasing, Ford Motor Co.

Turning suppliers into allies: When parts suppliers were asked in 2007 whom they liked to work with, Ford ranked dead last. By steadfastly pursuing a policy of choosing selected suppliers and working closely with them, Brown, 54, has pulled Ford up in the rankings to No. 3, behind traditional leaders Honda and Toyota. Brown's clear direction to a strong purchasing team has been to build trust rather than just beat up suppliers over price. Selling more vehicles and boosting suppliers' sales volumes help, too.