FordDirect Announces New Leadership Appointment
Industry veteran Tracy Noonan Fred takes leadership role with a talented team of over 300 individuals.
FordDirect has made a significant move by appointing Tracy Noonan Fred as the new Chief Operating Officer. This comes as part of the company’s ongoing mission to strengthen its market presence and improve offerings for Ford Dealers and Lincoln Retailers.
Expertise in Automotive Industry
Tracy Noonan Fred has a wealth of experience in the automotive sector, making her a perfect fit for this pivotal role. Her extensive background includes over three decades of experience with reputed firms such as Toyota, Nissan, Mitsubishi, and Mazda. Most recently, she led Dealer and Lender Solutions at Cox Automotive as Senior Vice President.
“Tracy brings incredibly valuable experience from our industry to FordDirect,” stated Chris Thornton, the Chief Executive Officer. “We are thrilled to welcome her aboard and are confident that she will help bolster our strategic advantage for Ford Dealers and Lincoln Retailers.”
Enhancing Digital Strategy
In her new role, Fred is charged with the oversight of daily operations at FordDirect. This includes managing teams focused on product development, dealer engagement, analytics, data strategy, and enterprise operations. Her aim is to ensure that the company can deliver best-in-class marketing solutions.
“I am excited to join the FordDirect team. My goal is to help our customers win at retail, and I am confident that we can achieve sustainability in our success,” expressed Fred.
Recognition and Qualifications
Fred’s contributions to the industry were recently acknowledged as she was named a 2025 Women in Retail honoree by Auto Remarketing. An alumna of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, she has proven her dedication and capability within the automotive field.
About FordDirect
FordDirect is a joint venture between Ford Motor Company and its dealers, based in Dearborn, Mich. The platform provides dealers with innovative internet-based marketing and sales solutions that catalyze traffic, drive sales, and enhance customer satisfaction. The company offers a robust suite of digital marketing tools to connect customers with dealers, aimed at improving the retail experience.
Contact Information
MEDIA CONTACT
Griffin Hickman
FordDirect Communications
Mobile: (313) 580-8836
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the position that Tracy Noonan Fred has been appointed to at FordDirect?
Tracy Noonan Fred has been appointed as the Chief Operating Officer of FordDirect.
What is FordDirect's primary role?
FordDirect serves as a joint venture providing dealers with a marketing and sales platform to enhance customer engagement and sales.
What experience does Tracy Fred bring to her new role?
Tracy Fred brings over 30 years of experience in the automotive industry, having worked with notable companies like Toyota and Cox Automotive.
What are FordDirect's goals with the new appointment?
The company aims to leverage Tracy Fred's expertise to enhance its digital strategy and improve marketing solutions for its dealers.
Where is FordDirect headquartered?
FordDirect is headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan, where it operates as a joint venture with Ford Motor Company.