Ford’s lead truck designer to resign, changes industries

Used Ford models in New York may receive additional attention after Pat Schiavone, Ford Motor Company’s chief truck designer, announced that he will be resigning from the company in early 2010.

Ford spokeswoman Marcey Evans confirmed Shiavone’s resignation on Monday, stating that he was leaving the organization for an opportunity within a different industry.

According to PickupTrucks.com, Ford’s North American Truck and SUV design director will be leaving the company to take on a new position with the appliance manufacturer Whirlpool.

Schiavone has worked for the company for the past 21 years and was responsible for the designing the 2002 F-350 Tonka Truck and the F-150 Lightning Rod, among others. He is also credited with re-designing the 1994 Mustang, Autonews.com reports.

Shiavone continues the trend of recent departures from Ford’s senior design team. Earlier in the year, GT designer Camilo Pardo left the company after 24 years of service. Peter Horbury, executive director of Ford Americas, recently announced his return to lead vehicle design at Volvo.

Interest in used Ford models in New York may grow following the news of another key employee moving on from the company.