What attracted you to the auto industry? I just love cars and the auto business. It's been part of my life from the very beginning.

First automotive job: Truck communications in 1995

Big break: The position I'm in now, running global dealer and consumer experience, is really a huge opportunity for me to build a relationship with the dealers globally and also to take the consumer experience movement that we've built with the dealers to a whole new level - to have the employees in the stores work together better in the different departments and have a better relationship with the customer.

Who has had the biggest influence on your career? The biggest influence in my life has been my grandfather. He's not here, but I think about him every day. I definitely have some key people that I like to interact with at Ford who have steered me and guided me through the journey, and they've been great mentors.

Tell us about your family. I have three girls and one boy and a dog named Oreo.

What's your favorite weekend activity? Playing golf when I have time and hanging out with my kids.

Name one talent you wish you had. I've always wanted to water-ski, and I can't do it.

Best advice you've ever gotten? Stay humble.