Argomenti trattati
The opportunity described here invites a seasoned product leader to own the full end-to-end product lifecycle for a portfolio of electronic accessories that ship with or attach to vehicles. You will balance rapid innovation from the consumer electronics world with the longer, regulated tempo of automotive programs to create high-margin, desirable items such as dash cameras, rear-seat entertainment, smart storage solutions, and connected IoT peripherals. This role is full time and hybrid, expecting proximity to a Ford hub for frequent onsite collaboration.
In this position you will act as the central advocate for the customer and the business, translating market signals into concrete product plans and launches. You will be accountable for the P&L of the accessories portfolio, craft pricing and take-rate models for both Factory-Installed Options and Dealer-Installed Options, and lead cross-functional teams to meet automotive standards for durability, safety, and software integration.
What the role delivers
At the core, you will forecast consumer tech trends and convert them into a strategic roadmap for in-vehicle and retail accessories. That means monitoring major industry showcases, mobile and gaming trends, and smart-device ecosystems, then shaping a product plan that fits within a vehicle program. You will define comprehensive Product Requirements Documents (PRDs) that marry consumer features to automotive constraints like extreme temperatures, vibration, and crash safety. Your remit includes the complete go-to-market strategy, from bundle packaging to standalone retail offerings and post-sale support.
How you will build and integrate products
Development and systems integration
You will coordinate hardware and software workstreams, guiding teams through stages such as EVT, DVT, PVT while using contemporary Agile practices on the software side. Close collaboration with Electrical Engineering and Vehicle Integration teams is required to ensure compatibility with vehicle networks like CAN bus and automotive Ethernet, and to meet testing expectations such as AEC-Q100. Driving a seamless consumer experience also requires deep involvement with infotainment platforms like SYNC/Android Automotive and with companion mobile integrations via the FordPass app.
Supplier, licensing and OTA management
This role will form and manage strategic relationships with consumer electronics brands, Tier 1 and Tier 2 suppliers, and contract manufacturers to co-develop or white-label hardware and software. You will negotiate licensing and protect intellectual property while ensuring privacy compliance. Post-launch, you will own the OTA update roadmap so connected accessories receive feature improvements, security patches, and bug fixes. Performance monitoring will use telemetry, app store reviews, and warranty data to inform iterative improvements.
Qualifications, culture and compensation
Ideal candidates hold a degree in electrical engineering, computer science, product design or business, with an MBA or advanced degree preferred. You should have hands-on experience managing products that combine physical hardware, cloud services and mobile apps, plus familiarity with automotive-grade testing and vehicle program processes. A strong sense of user experience—particularly around driver distraction and HMI—and proven ability to work in a matrixed environment bridging software, hardware and commercial stakeholders are essential. Experience from major consumer electronics companies is a plus but not required.
Benefits, legal and workplace details
Ford offers a comprehensive benefits package including immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription coverage, family care supports, paid parental leave, fertility and family building assistance, vehicle discounts, tuition assistance, and paid community service days. The position is classified as leadership level 5 with a salary range of $167,200 – $316,600; final placement depends on skills and experience. Visa sponsorship is available, but candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States and will undergo employment eligibility verification at hire. Ford is an equal opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodation for applicants with disabilities during the online application process.