Ford has just handed the design reins to a familiar face: Todd Willing, the creative mind behind some of its most memorable models. Willing, who has been part of the Ford family for two decades, steps up as the new global head of design, following the departure of Anthony Lo earlier this year. Lo himself was a successor to Moray Callum, who retired in 2021 after reshaping Ford's design language for over twenty years. Now, it's Willing’s turn to drive the design narrative for both Ford and Lincoln vehicles worldwide.

Willing isn't just another name on the roster; he’s been with Ford since 2003, honing his craft across the globe—from the hustle of Japan and Germany to the design hubs of England and the United States. He’s also spent time as the head of the Asia-Pacific studio in Melbourne, Australia, where he first cut his teeth in the industry through a high school work experience program with Ford’s local design studio.

Over the years, Willing has been the design brains behind everything from the Europe-market 2007 Mondeo to the third-generation Focus, and the sixth-generation Fiesta. But his most notable accolade might be his role as the exterior chief designer for the bold and unmistakably futuristic 2017 Ford GT supercar—a real statement piece in Ford's performance arsenal. His fingerprints are also all over Ford’s truck and SUV lineup, having led the teams that shaped icons like the F-150, Super Duty, Bronco, Ranger, Maverick, Expedition, and Explorer.

Taking the top design role is a big shift, and while Willing's influence will officially start on August 27th, it may take a couple of years before we see his fresh vision out on the road. But given his track record, you can expect it to be well worth the wait.