Ford's long-serving John Fleming, most recently head of manufacturing and labour affairs, is to retire after over 48 years at the automaker.

He is responsible for overseeing the global operations of 66 assembly, stamping and powertrain plants as well as the UAW-Ford labour negotiations and contract ratification just completed. Prior to being named to his current position in August 2010, he served dual roles as chairman and CEO of Ford of Europe and executive vice president, manufacturing and labour affairs.

"John's extensive global knowledge and strong leadership have played important roles in our European operations and product quality gains in our manufacturing throughout the world," said Mark Fields, Ford president and CEO. "During his career, John also was instrumental in leading our team and negotiating labour agreements with our union partners that have enabled us to deliver strong business results and innovative new products for our customers."

Succeeding Fleming will be Bruce Hettle, 54, who was named group vice president, manufacturing and labour affairs. Hettle currently is vice president, North America Manufacturing, a position in which he has served since January 2014. In his new role, he will report to Fields.

Succeeding Hettle is Gary Johnson, 51, who was named vice president, North America manufacturing. He will report to Joe Hinrichs, executive vice president and president, The Americas. Previously, Johnson was vice president, Asia Pacific manufacturing since January 2010.

Raj Nair, 50, was named executive vice president, product development and chief technical officer, effective today. He will continue to report to Fields. Nair has global responsibility for all aspects of the company's design, engineering, research and product development. Raj currently is group vice president, product development and chief technical officer, a position to which he was named in April 2012.

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Joy Falotico was named chief operating officer, Ford Motor Credit Company. She currently is executive vice president, Ford Credit marketing, sales, Americas and strategic planning. She has led marketing, sales and the Americas since 2013, with strategic planning responsibilities added in January.