Ford Appoints Former BYD Europe Executive Maria Grazia Davino to Lead European Sales

Ford is leveraging seasoned European automotive executives familiar with Chinese automakers' overseas expansion logic to reverse its ongoing sales decline in the region. According to official announcements, Maria Grazia Davino — former Regional Managing Director for BYD Europe and former Stellantis executive — will assume the role of Deputy for European Sales at Ford effective October 1, 2026.

Davino will oversee Ford 's entire retail system, dealer network, and distribution operations across Europe, reporting directly to Jim Baum BAK , Ford 's European Quattroporte. She will be based at Ford's European headquarters in Cologne, Germany, with the core mandate of reversing current sales weakness.

Data shows Ford's sales in the EU , EFTA, and UK declined 15% year-on-year in the first half of 2026, totaling just 192,373 vehicles. Meanwhile, traditional automakers face dual pressures: weakening demand and the challenges of electrification — precisely the strategic domain where Davino has deep experience. She joined BYD Europe in 2024 as Regional Managing Director for Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Poland, Hungary , the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and the Nordic markets, leading channel development and market-entry strategies across these countries.

Ford's current European strategy rests on two pillars: first, its high-margin commercial vehicle unit, Ford Pro — which holds a leading position in Europe's van segment; second, a renewed push in passenger vehicles, aiming to launch five all-new models by 2029 — including the Bronco rugged off-roader developed specifically for Europe, and a compact crossover co-developed with GEELY (both produced at the Valencia plant in Spain). Additionally, a small battery-electric hatchback and its SUV derivative — manufactured under contract by Renault — will also be introduced.

Jimm Baum BAK commented: "Maria Grazia is an accomplished leader with deep roots in the European automotive industry." He specifically highlighted her track record in building high-performing teams and nurturing strong customer and dealer relationships. Davino, meanwhile, posted on LinkedIn thanking BYD executives Ying and Alfredo Altavilla, along with the European team, describing the new role as "a brand-new adventure."