100 Leading Women In The North American Auto Industry

Jean Mayer, 51

Executive Director, Asia-Pacific and Africa Purchasing and Global Systems, Ford Motor Co.

Education: B.A., business administration, University of Michigan; M.B.A., Eastern Michigan University

First automotive job: Buyer in Ford Motor Co.'s electrical and electronics division in 1977

Biggest mistake and what you learned: "Underestimating the importance of culture in doing business in other countries. You need to step back and pay attention."

Career highlights (all with Ford)
  • 2002-04 Executive director, global manufacturing procurement operations, global purchasing
  • 2000-02 Executive director, customer relationship services, ConsumerConnect, marketing sales and service (cross-functional assignment)
  • 1997-2000 Executive director, global manufacturing procurement operations, global purchasing
  • 1996-97 Director, strategic planning, global purchasing
  • 1995-96 Director, Small/medium Vehicle Centre, production purchasing, Ford Europe
  • 1992-94 Director, program planning, global purchasing

Proudest achievement: "I am very proud of the purchasing leadership across the region and the way they have stepped up to meet the challenges of this exciting and growing market."

Current challenge: "Finding a way to work effectively across the various organizations we have in Asia-Pacific, Ford, Mazda and joint ventures with our Chinese partners."

On being successful: "I am successful because I work hard and focus on priorities. Also, Ford has provided me many opportunities to deliver results on which I have tried to capitalize. Presently having the opportunity to work with Asia-Pacific and Africa is a significant opportunity, which I appreciate."

What women need to know for success in the auto industry: "It's not for people who are unsure about what they want to do, not for those half-committed."

Job to which you aspire: "To be the leader with whom everyone wants to work because of the development the experience provides and the business results delivered."

What you do to relax: "Reading and traveling."