Ford has announced the departure of Doug Field, the executive who spearheaded the company's electric vehicle and technology strategies. His long tenure came to an end as part of a broader reorganisation, leaving some wondering what this means for Ford’s ambitious plans in software and EVs.

Field joined Ford in 2021, bringing with him a wealth of experience from Silicon Valley, including his roles at Apple and Tesla. His return to the company he started as a development engineer in 1987 was seen as a strategic move by CEO Jim Farley to transform Ford into a leader in tech-driven automotive innovation.

Field's responsibilities were vast, covering everything from vehicle controls and enterprise connectivity to digital engineering tools and cybersecurity. His departure now leaves the ‘product creation and industrialization’ team under COO Kumar Galhotra, with ambitious targets for profit margins and product refreshes by 2029.

The reorganisation also sees the folding of Ford’s electric vehicle and design team into this new structure. This move comes as the company aims to release the Universal Electric Vehicle (UEV) platform and other products designed by its skunkworks program, now led by Alan Clarke from Tesla.

While Field's exit is significant, it seems the broader strategy remains intact. Ford’s plans for a 8% adjusted profit margin and major portfolio refreshes suggest continuity in the long-term vision despite personnel changes.