Ford’s remarkable 100-year anniversary in Australia stands as a testament to its enduring legacy, as highlighted by Bill Ford, the executive chair of the Ford Motor Company. This centenary celebration not only marks a century of innovation and relationships but intertwines history, community, and a commitment to the future.
Reflecting on Ford’s illustrious journey in Australia, Bill Ford emphasised the origins of their iconic utility vehicles. The brand’s 1930s innovation of the “ute,” created to meet both farmers’ and families’ needs by serving as a practical yet stylish vehicle, set the stage for what would become a hallmark of Ford’s identity in the country. Today, models like the Ford Ranger and Everest, developed in Australia, are sold in over 180 countries, highlighting the global impact of the company’s Australian operations. “We don’t do boring vehicles,” Bill Ford remarked, underscoring the emotional and customisable qualities that make their cars globally appealing.
Ford’s rich history in Australia is also intertwined with nurturing talent. Over the decades, the country has produced exceptional leaders who helped shape the company’s success worldwide, with names like Jac Nasser, Todd Willing, and Jim Baumbick showcasing the strength of Ford Australia’s management and innovation pipeline.
“We don’t do boring vehicles, we’ll leave the boring stuff with somebody else we’re going to do the emotional stuff”.
William Clay Ford Jr. Executive chair of Ford Motor Company
Beyond vehicles, Ford’s emphasis on community values resonates deeply. From its contributions during World Wars to producing personal protective equipment during COVID-19, and now providing support for flood-stricken areas in northern Australia, Ford has consistently demonstrated its commitment to helping communities thrive. Bill Ford highlighted the company’s partnership with the Red Cross, which includes not only financial assistance but also donations of vehicles and employee volunteer efforts. “This is the kind of one thing that we feel is very important at Ford, that we have values and that we live those values every day,” he shared.
One unique aspect of the celebration ties to the company’s long-standing partnership with the Geelong Football Club, affectionately known as the “Cats.” This partnership, established in 1925, is one of the longest professional alliances in the world, embodying the depth of Ford’s connection to Australian culture. Many Ford employees historically played for the team, a connection that enhances the shared history celebrated during this landmark year.
In essence, Ford’s century in Australia is more than a corporate milestone, it’s a celebration of vehicles that define lifestyles, a country that fuels global innovation, and values that drive Ford to support communities in need. As Bill Ford fittingly stated, “We’re not just another nameless, faceless corporation. We’re a family business… and we’re going to be a family business for a long time”.
