Michael J. Pease was appointed managing director for Ford Malaysia on February 1, 2004. Pease has responsibilities for all of Ford Malaysia operations including manufacturing, product development, distribution, sales, marketing and service. His key areas for development will focus on strengthening Ford's product portfolio, implementing lean manufacturing, employee leadership development, improving the dealer network and customer satisfaction.
Pease has extensive knowledge and experience in the ASEAN automotive industry. Prior to his appointment, Pease had worked in a number of Sales and Marketing, and Business Development functions within the ASEAN countries including Thailand and Indonesia. His most recent position was as regional marketing director for Ford Asia Pacific, based in the Bangkok regional headquarters.
In this position, Pease was responsible for regional marketing programs, developing marketing competencies and promoting business synergies amongst twelve diverse markets in Asia-Pacific, including Malaysia. He successfully championed the ASEAN launch campaign for the Ford Escape and the Ford Everest.
As executive director for Ford Sales and Services Thailand, between 1998 and 2002, Pease was instrumental in the successful launch of the Ford Ranger and the development of the Thai distribution network. Under his stewardship, the Ford Ranger pickup was recognized as one of the leading brands in the market and was awarded the J.D. Power Best Pickup Award in Quality for two consecutive years in 2000 and 2001.
Pease has a wealth of experience having served 26 years with Ford Motor Company. He started his career with Ford Australia as a graduate trainee in January 1978. He moved up the corporate ladder holding a variety of positions in Sales & Marketing including Marketing Plans & Research manager, Launch Communications manager for the Ford Falcon and Sales & Marketing Operations manager.
Pease received his initial overseas posting in July 1992 when he assumed the position of national manager for Direct Market Operations, located in Indonesia.
A native of Tasmania, Pease was born on December 9, 1955 and is married with two children. He holds a degree in Commerce and Law from the University of Tasmania.