Education: B.A., music, University of Illinois; M.B.A., University of Illinois

First automotive job: Current position

Proudest achievement: "I'm proud of the interactive advertising campaign that I directed for Ford Focus that combined the Internet and live TV to involve viewers. It was the biggest live television campaign in history. It was revolutionary."

On being successful: "To me, being successful means helping others and being true to myself."

On being a woman in the industry: "I have a passion for ideas, for seeing how big a spark I can light in someone's eyes. I am committed to helping people realize their potential; be enthusiastic about who they are, what they do and what could be. And I love cars. So working for Ford combines my passions, and the company appreciates and tries to nurture the things that are important to me. Oh, and I happen to be female."

Career highlights:

Positions at Leo Burnett, U.S.A., Chicago, include:

• 1997-98 Senior VP, Account Director, Hallmark Cards
• 1993-97 VP, Account Director, Oldsmobile
• 1992-94 VP, Account Director, McDonald's Corp.