Ford names Tim Wels PH chief

Ford Motor Company has appointed Tim Wels as managing director of Ford Philippines effective Nov. 1, succeeding Pedro Simoes, who will return to the Middle East.

Wels is currently general manager for Marketing and Strategy at Ford Australia. He will relocate to Manila and report to Andrew Birkic, vice president for Sales and Service of Ford International Markets Group.

He will oversee Ford’s Philippine operations, with responsibilities that include sustaining growth, improving ownership and aftersales services and working with dealer partners.

His appointment comes after Ford Philippines launched the refreshed Ranger and Everest lineup and the Territory Hybrid Platinum. The company has also opened a new Parts Distribution Center and Learning Center as part of its aftersales program.

Birkic said Wels brings experience in profitable growth, brand development and leading cross-functional teams.

Wels joined Ford Australia in 2008 and has worked across retail, product and brand marketing, vehicle launches, customer experience, communications and business strategy.

“I am excited to be joining our talented team in the Philippines,” Wels said.

He added that he looks forward to working with Ford employees, dealers and partners as the company approaches its 30th anniversary in the Philippines in 2027.

Simoes, meanwhile, will leave the Philippine post after leading what Ford described as an organizational and culture transformation.

Birkic thanked Simoes for his contributions and said he had helped position Ford Philippines for its next phase.