Lisa Drake became vice president, EV Industrialization, for Ford Model e in March 2022 and additionally oversees manufacturing engineering as Ford develops breakthrough electric vehicles at scale. She reports to Doug Field, chief advanced product development and technology officer.
Previously, Drake was chief operating officer, North America, responsible for bringing enhanced focus to product launches, warranty reduction and material cost improvements. She also served as vice president, Global Purchasing, responsible for all category management processes and procurement functions across direct and indirect purchasing areas as well as supplier technical assistance. Prior to that role, Drake led the Global Powertrain purchasing organization which was responsible for procurement of all engine, transmission and drivetrain components, as well as all electrification components including batteries.
Drake held various positions in Product Development over nearly 20 years. In 2004, she led the F-150 product and launch team during the construction of the state-of-the-art Dearborn Truck Plant at the Ford Rouge Center. Her other notable positions include chief engineer, Lincoln MKC; assistant chief engineer, F-Series Super Duty; program manager roles for Explorer and Expedition. Drake also was chief engineer for Global Hybrid and Electric Vehicles, leading the development and delivery of Fusion Hybrid, Lincoln MKZ Hybrid, and the C-Max Hybrid and Energi programs. In 2008, the Automotive Hall of Fame awarded her the Young Leadership and Excellence Award, in recognition of her contributions and leadership in the growing field of electrification.
Drake joined Ford in 1994 as a Ford College Graduate in Powertrain Engineering. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University and a master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Michigan.