- Tim Wels will take over as Managing Director of Ford Philippines on November 1, succeeding Pedro Simoes, who will return to the Middle East.
- Nearly two decades with Ford. Wels joined Ford Australia in 2008 and brings experience across marketing, retail, customer experience, vehicle launches, and business strategy.
- A new chapter for Ford PH, Wels takes the helm as Ford Philippines builds on recent vehicle launches, aftersales investments, and preparations for its 30th anniversary in 2027.
MANILA, Philippines, 14 September 2026 – Ford Motor Company has appointed Tim Wels as Managing Director of Ford Philippines, effective November 1, 2026.
Wels currently serves as General Manager for Marketing and Strategy at Ford Australia. He will relocate to Manila for his new role, succeeding Pedro Simoes, who will return to the Middle East for his next assignment.
Wels will report directly to Andrew Birkic, Vice President, Sales and Service, Ford International Markets Group (IMG).
As Managing Director, Wels will lead Ford’s operations in the Philippines, with a focus on sustaining the company’s growth, strengthening the ownership and aftersales experience, and building closer relationships with dealer partners to better serve customers.
His appointment comes as Ford Philippines enters an exciting period, following the recent launches of the refreshed Ranger and Everest lineup and the Territory Hybrid Platinum. The company is also continuing its efforts to enhance the customer ownership experience through investments such as its new Parts Distribution Center and Learning Center.
“With a proven track record of driving profitable growth, enhancing brand value, and leading high-performing cross-functional teams, I am confident that Tim will be able to lead the team and work together with our dealer partners to further strengthen the Ford brand in the Philippines,” said Birkic.
“On behalf of the Ford team, I also want to express my appreciation to Pedro for his significant contributions to Ford Philippines. Pedro successfully led an organizational and culture transformation and positioned the business for success in its next phase. We wish him the very best in his new role,” Birkic added.
Wels joined Ford Australia in 2008 and brings nearly two decades of experience across the automotive business. His career has included leadership roles in retail, product and brand marketing, new vehicle launches, customer experience, marketing communications, and business strategy.
“I am excited to be joining our talented team in the Philippines,” said Wels. “I look forward to working with our passionate group of employees, dealers and partners who have all been instrumental to the success of Ford Philippines, especially as it approaches its 30th anniversary in 2027 with an exciting vehicle line-up and enhanced ownership offerings for Filipino customers.”