Ford Names New COO in Europe, Finance Chief for Mobility Unit

Ford Motor Co. has named Steven Armstrong, formerly president of Ford South America, to become its chief operating officer in Europe, effective Sept. 1.

Armstrong, 52, succeeds Barb Samardzich, 57, who will retire on Oct. 1 after more than 26 years at Ford. She was head of product development for Ford of Europe before becoming COO there nearly three years ago.

Like his predecessor, Armstrong will oversee Ford’s product development, purchasing, manufacturing quality and environmental safety and engineering activities in the region.

The company has named Lyle Watters, 51, to take over as president of Ford South America on Aug. 1. Watters had been chief financial officer at Ford of Europe.

Separately, Neil Schloss has been given the additional role of chief financial officer for Ford Smart Mobility LLC,a subsidiary set up to develop mobility services, effective Aug. 1. Schloss, 57, will continue as Ford’s treasurer.