This Director Moved to China to Build a Luxury Business — Here’s What She Learned

Amy Marentic is the definition of ambition. In 2016, she moved to China to build a luxury brand in the most competitive car market in the world. And if that wasn’t enough to prove her drive, she’s now back in the U.S. to help Ford pilot a new technology that will shake the automotive business: autonomous vehicles. Women love working at Ford Motor Company for just this reason: they provide opportunities to try new things, and support you as you experiment and work to change the world. 

Browse Opportunities at Ford. 

Marentic spoke to Fairygodboss about how she went from aerospace engineering to branding, the people who have motivated her to take risks, and how she gets everything done. 

How long have you been in your current role, and what were you doing previously? 

I’ve been in my current role as the Director of Brand and Marketing, Autonomous Vehicles for two months. Previously, I was the president of Lincoln, Asia Pacific.

What’s the first thing you do at work every day? 

I make an energy drink, check email, and get organized for the day.

What’s the most unique or interesting aspect of your job or company?

We are creating a technology that will change the automotive business and the way it has functioned for the past 115 years. 

What’s something you think most people (perhaps even current employees) don’t know about your company that you think they should? 

We have the most amazing people working at Ford. 

What’s something you’re especially good at at work?

Collaboration and innovation.

What about outside of work? 

I love practicing yoga. 

What are you trying to improve on? 

My handstand and my nutrition.

What’s your favorite mistake?

I like to really push hard to “pilot” new things. I tell the team in China if we are not failing, we are not trying hard enough.  

What’s the one career move you’ve made that you’re most proud of? 

Moving to China to build a new luxury brand in the most competitive automotive market in the world.

What do you love most about your job or your company? 

The people at Ford are incredible and they inspire me every day. Also, I love the fact that the company is so big and so open that employees have the ability to do so many different things.  My career started as an aerospace engineer working on optimizing vehicle airflow, and now I am building the marketing strategy for our new autonomous vehicle technologies.  

What are you currently reading/watching/listening to?

I’m reading “How Women Rise,” and “Radical Metabolism.” I’m always listening to Spotify’s Pop Rising playlist. And I’m watching A Million Little Things on ABC and Football (I missed it when I was in China).

What’s your #1 piece of advice for women who are looking for jobs right now

Don’t wait until you have the perfect experience for the perfect job. Go after opportunities.    One of my favorite quotes is “a ship in harbor is safe, but that is not what ships are built for,” by John A. Shedd.  

Who is the most influential person in your life and why?

My father.  He instilled my work ethic and never-give-up attitude.  He also made it very clear to me that I could do anything! 

What’s the most memorable piece of career advice you’ve received?

My son’s best friend from high school who is now a Navy Seal once said, “be bold, be brief, and be gone.”

What was the best quality of the best boss you’ve ever had?

Vision.

--

Fairygodboss is proud to partner with Ford Motor Company. Find a job there today!