Dearborn-based Ford Motor Co. today announced the hiring of leading brand expert and former Apple executive Musa Tariq as vice president and chief brand officer. The appointment is part of Ford’s expansion into an auto and mobility company.
Tariq, 34, is an elected Ford officer and will begin work Jan. 30.
In his new role, Tariq will be responsible for further building and differentiating the company’s Ford brand. He will work with marketing, communications, and company leaders across the world to define, build, and communicate the Ford brand.
“As we grow our business, we’re also expanding our focus on an investment in building and differentiating our iconic Ford brand,” says Mark Fields, president and CEO of Ford.
“Our opportunity is to connect with even more consumers and stakeholders — some who never have done business with Ford before — through compelling and culturally relevant marketing and communications. Musa has led transformational work at some of the world’s most admired brands, and he is a leader known for challenging convention. We’re excited for him to bring his expertise, knowledge, and passion to Ford.”
Prior to joining Ford, Tariq was Apple’s Global marketing and communication director for retail. In this role, he launched several initiatives that enhanced the retail experience at more than 490 Apple stores and for more than 65,000 Apple Retail employees around the world.
Prior to Apple, Tariq was senior director of social media and community at Nike, as well as the global head of digital marketing, and later, the first-ever director of social media at Burberry.
