Director, Virtualization, V&V

Ford Motor Company

. Manage a multi-regional Virtualization & Simulation organization responsible for software and system testing .

Posted 9/29/2026full-timeDearborn • Michigan • United StatesLeadWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in managing Virtualization and Simulation processes, with a strong focus on Verification and Validation (V&V) strategies to enhance software quality and efficiency. Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, develop vECUs, and implement continuous improvement initiatives in the automotive industry.

Highest-signal resume keywords

15+ Years In Automotive IndustryVerification And Validation ExperienceDevelopment Of vECUsMicrosoft Office ProficiencyTechnical Planning And Business Strategy

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Software TestingSystem TestingV&V ProcessesAutomationRisk MitigationQuality MetricsECU Hardware/Software DevelopmentVirtual Validation CapabilitiesCross-Functional Team LeadershipContinuous Improvement Initiatives

Soft Skills

Excellent Communication SkillsPositive Teamwork EthicsCreative Problem-SolverAbility To Influence PeersSound Decision-Making

Tools & Technologies

Ford Global Product Development System (GPDS)Virtual Environment ToolsScorecard Management ToolsProject Management Software

Industry Keywords

Automotive IndustrySoftware QualityDefect ManagementProduct DevelopmentEmbedded Systems

Tech Stack

Tools & technologies

Cloud

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Manage a multi-regional Virtualization & Simulation organization responsible for software and system testing
Drive V&V strategy changes to improve software quality, reduce defect escapes, increase automation and improve efficiency
Drive adoption of vECUs across development and validation teams to scale parallel testing
Lead teams interfacing with system owners, platforms and features to define V&V strategy and communicate planning and execution status
Manage communication of changes, cost, investment and plan adherence through standard scorecards
Lead cross-functional communication meetings to coordinate cross-module issues and changes
Drive quality focus through V&V processes and leading metrics
Establish common tools, processes and methods with the V&V team to drive efficiency
Manage platform and program timelines, risk mitigation plans and cost/investment for on-time delivery
Drive continuous improvement initiatives to streamline testing and improve quality
Develop detailed end-to-end plans for new platforms, products and designs
Track quality, financial and talent objectives
Lead transformation of software and vehicle validation in a virtual environment
Define and execute vECUs and vehicle digital twins
Partner with Systems Lifecycle, Development, Technical Program Management, Vehicle Programs, Connected Vehicle Software and Global Technology Strategy teams
Create, communicate and manage the roadmap for vECU and virtual validation execution
Ensure adherence to V&V processes and KPI compliance

Requirements

What you’ll need

Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or computer science/engineering or equivalent; Master’s degree desired but not required
15+ years in automotive industry with ECU hardware/software development or system/software validation
Previous experience defining and delivering vECUs and virtual validation capabilities
Work hybrid schedule between in-office (Mexico City) and remote
Proficient in Microsoft Office products
Experience with hardware/software from concept to production
Strong preference to have verification and validation experience
Experience with Ford Global Product Development System (GPDS) deliverables and timing
Experience building effective teams and navigating teams to balance competing demands
Experience building an effective team and developing a positive workplace atmosphere
Ability to make sound decisions and exercise good judgment pertaining to operations, procedures, and new processes
Positive teamwork ethics and good leadership behaviors
Skilled in technical planning, business strategy and product coordination
Excellent written and verbal communication skills and strong people skills
Expertise developing materials for executive-level consumption and simplifying messaging to key points
Resilient creative thinker and problem-solver
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision in a demanding environment
Strong drive for results with commitment to quality and attention to detail
Capability to develop a cross-functional and global team environment
Ability to influence peers and stakeholders to gain alignment toward goals
Ability to address challenges involving hardware, software, embedded systems, cloud and suppliers
Continuous improvement mindset
Ability to see multiple workstreams and processes, link synergies and eliminate redundancy
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
Visa sponsorship is not available

Benefits

Comp & perks

Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
Flexible family care days
Paid parental leave
New parent ramp-up programs
Subsidized back-up child care
Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement
Fertility treatments
Vehicle discount program for employees and family members
Management leases
Tuition assistance
Established and active employee resource groups
Paid time off for individual and team community service
Generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day
Paid time off
Option to purchase additional vacation time