Specialist, Product Alliances

Ford Ford · Auto · Dearborn, MI +1 · Enterprise Product Line Management

This role manages Ford's global vehicle and component alliances with partner automakers and suppliers, focusing on the technical elements of these partnerships. Responsibilities include coordinating initiatives, handling negotiations, building relationships, organizing governance meetings, and supporting best practices across various internal departments and external legal teams. The role requires a BS in Electrical Engineering, Software, or Computer Engineering, or equivalent, with 5+ years of experience in embedded software development or a similar software environment, and familiarity with product development, finance, and purchasing processes.

What you'd actually do

  1. Serve as a key member of the Product Alliances global team, managing Ford’s vehicle and component alliances with OEMs and JV partners throughout the lifecycle.
  2. Align with Business Development and Corporate Strategy on global alliance activities.
  3. Coordinate contract negotiations, documentation, and amendments with internal and external legal teams.
  4. Build effective relationships with external alliance managers to facilitate efficient collaboration.
  5. Work cross-functionally with internal departments such as Tech Strategy, Corporate Strategy, Product Development, Purchasing, Marketing, Manufacturing, Finance, Government Affairs, Public Affairs, and Office of General Council to manage alliances and resolve issues.

Skills

Required

  • B.S. in Electrical Engineering, Software, or Computer Engineering; or an equivalent degree.
  • 5+ years of experience with embedded software development or similar software environment.
  • Experience with a software development environment.
  • Familiarity with product development, finance, and purchasing processes.
  • Demonstrated initiative, adaptability, and strategic thinking in dynamic environments.
  • Strong ability to communicate complex technical and business concepts to non-experts.
  • Ability to travel to Ford and partner sites in Noth America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and China.

Nice to have

  • Excellent interpersonal, communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
  • Experience in project management, strategy, or planning.