Director, Value Stream Mapping - AI Optimization

In this position...

We are seeking a deeply experienced process expert and strategic thinker to serve as the Director, Value Stream Mapping - AI Optimization. This role is critical in bridging the gap between Ford’s complex business realities within the Dealer ecosystem and our AI ambitions. You will be responsible for mapping the current state of AI adoption and defining a detailed "Picture of Success." This role is designed for a leader who understands the "cautions" and nuances of the automotive industry and can solve the problem of fragmented, one-off AI solutions. You will bring structure to business problem discovery, drive consistency in how teams describe their needs, and identify cross-team patterns to accelerate time-to-value.

1. Lead Structured Business Discovery & Pain-Point Inventory

• Lead a structured business problem discovery mission by creating a comprehensive AI pain-point inventory.
• Standardize how teams describe their needs to eliminate inconsistency and identify cross-team patterns that are often missed.
• Move the organization away from "one-off" AI solutions toward scalable, pattern-based problem solving.

2. Develop the AI Transformation Playbook

• Build and institutionalize a holistic AI Transformation Playbook.
• Conduct AI Readiness Assessments and define the Vision, providing a clear analysis of the Current State versus Future State.
• Perform rigorous gap assessments across cultural, operational, and technical dimensions to ensure viability.

3. Map Current State & Dealer Processes

• Leverage deep expertise in Ford Dealer processes, existing assets, and overall enterprise operations to create detailed business process maps.
• Identify specific opportunities where AI can optimize dealer interactions and internal workflows while navigating known structural cautions.
• Define a detailed "Picture of Success" for every initiative to ensure alignment before development begins.

4. Drive Opportunity Mapping & Prioritization

• Create and implement Opportunity Templates to standardize intake and assessment.
• Execute opportunity mapping and use case prioritization to focus resources on high-impact initiatives.
• Partner with AI Products to define success metrics and ensure a shared definition of value.

5. Oversee Technical Briefs & Vendor Evaluation

• Translate business needs into technical reality by leading the creation of Tech briefs and prototypes.
• Implement a lightweight framework for evaluating vendors and facilitating decision-making.
• Ensure technical solutions are feasible within Ford’s specific environment and infrastructure.

6. Accelerate Time-to-Value & Phased Rollout

• Design phased rollout strategies that mitigate risk and manage change management effectively.
• Focus relentlessly on shortening Time-to-Value by identifying the quickest path to measurable impact.
• Eliminate waste by identifying redundant efforts and steering teams toward shared solutions.