David Thursfield was born in England in 1945. He studied at Aston University in England, graduating in 1965 with a degree in Production Engineering. Three years later, he earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Psychology from Brunel University London.

Before joining Ford, he was Plant Manager at British Leyland. Thursfield joined Ford in 1979 as Plant Manager of the car assembly plant in Broadmeadows, Australia, a position he held until 1984.

From 1984 to 1992, he served as General Manager of Manufacturing for the Valencia and Dagenham operations for Ford Europe, and as General Manager of Body and Assembly Operations at Halewood, Saarlouis, Genk, and Niehl. During this period, in 1987, he was based in Almussafes as General Manager of Manufacturing for the Valencia plant.

Under his leadership, the Ford Motor Company Board of Directors strongly supported investments in the Almussafes Plant. These investments transformed Ford Spain into a plant of great importance in Europe in terms of technology, product development, productivity, and quality.

Mr. Thursfield recognized the effort, dedication, teamwork, organization, ingenuity, creativity, and openness of the Valencia workforce in embracing new technologies and knowledge.

In 1992, he was appointed Director of Manufacturing for Ford Europe with special responsibility for vehicle manufacturing operations. During this time, key decisions were made for Valencia, including designating Almussafes as the sole European plant to build Ford’s smallest model at the time, the Ford KA. This decision resulted in an investment of 186 million euros and sparked the creation of the Juan Carlos I Supplier Park, which introduced new material supply technologies that remain a reference point in the automotive industry today.

His support was also decisive for the installation of the Zetec-SE Engine Plant and the production of the Ford Focus. In 1996, he moved to the United States, where he took on responsibilities for manufacturing at plants in North America and Australia.

In 1998, the Polytechnic University of Valencia awarded him its Gold Medal in recognition of his efforts and dedication to the development of the Almussafes Plant, as well as his support for collaboration with the university.

This collaboration has resulted in countless activities, including training, fostering R&D projects, and engaging students in industry-related initiatives.

As part of the implementation of the Ford 2000 strategy, David Thursfield was appointed Vice President of Operations, responsible for managing 66 stamping and assembly plants worldwide.

He finally returned to Europe in 2000, assuming the highest position within the organization as President of Ford Europe. All of these announced investments, totaling 600 million euros, represent the largest investment ever made in Almussafes since its launch, ensuring continued business and employment for the next four to five years—a key factor for the plant’s future and its ties with the University.

DAVID THURSFIELD APPOINTED EXECUTIVE PRESIDENT OF FORD EUROPE

Cologne, January 15, 2001 – In his effort to drive and consolidate Ford Europe’s transformation strategy, Ford Europe President Nick Scheele created the position of Executive President.

David W. Thursfield, who had led Ford Europe’s operations since January 1, 2000, was appointed to this new role effective immediately.

Nick Scheele stated: “Our strategy of significant investments and cost reductions is delivering results, and as my responsibilities as President expand, now is the right time to focus the management of our strategy in the hands of a dedicated executive. From now on, I want to draw on David Thursfield’s experience and talent to fulfill this important role.”

As Executive President of Ford Europe, Thursfield’s previous responsibilities in Manufacturing, Purchasing, Product Development, and Quality were expanded to include Finance, Marketing, Sales, and After-Sales. Other areas, such as Human Resources, Legal Affairs, Government and Environmental Affairs, and Communications, would be jointly overseen by Scheele and Thursfield.

“The year 2001 will not be easy, but we have developed a strong business strategy, have great products on the way, and excellent people working at our company,” said Thursfield. “I am delighted to help lead the team towards sustainable, profitable growth and to make Ford a strong brand in Europe.”

Ford announced its European transformation strategy in May 2000. This plan included the launch of 45 new products over the next five years, including the recently launched Ford Mondeo and the new Ford Transit, which won Van of the Year.

This strategy is accompanied by a brand commitment to improve efficiency and reduce costs by 10 percent by 2004.

During this period, key decisions continued to be made that would have a major impact on the Almussafes Plant and its relationship with the Polytechnic University of Valencia. These include the return of production of the new Fiesta to the Valencia plant, the adaptation of the Zetec engine plant to begin production of a new generation of gasoline engines (the I-4), and, for the first time, the manufacturing of a Mazda model at a Ford plant in Europe.