Seminar: From Race to Road: Ford Mustang, a New Chapter with Jay Leno & Jim Owens

In a compelling conversation, Jim Owens, Mustang GTD Brand Manager and Jay Leno discuss the latest innovations in the Mustang GTD- inspired by racecar technology brought to the street.

You'll also hear how the vibrant and successful Mustang racing program informs and advances an exciting new chapter in the history of this American legend.

 

Jim Owens

Jim Owens is Brand Manager for the Ford Mustang GTD, which was designed to be a road-going racecar with the heart of a Mustang and the will to beat Europe’s best. As a lifelong enthusiast and automotive industry veteran, he is responsible for connecting passionate Mustang and sportscar customers with the Ford Performance and Mustang community.  

Owens has been part of Ford Motor Company for over 35 years. Before his appointment as Ford Mustang GTD Brand Manager, he served as Mustang and Shelby Consumer Marketing. In that role, he helped launch many of the most successful sports car versions in the company’s history, including Shelby, Boss, Bullitt and Mach1 edition vehicles. He also pioneered popular consumer experiences including national Track Tours, Ride and Drives at celebrated events, and celebrity studded vehicle introductions for enthusiasts.

Jim’s stellar accomplishments include a two year period as the Marketing Manager for the 2017-2020 model years Ford GT. In this role, he helped develop the marketing and communications strategies, vetted applications for the Ford supercar and was a liaison with customers worldwide.

Jim’s impressive credentials also include four years as Vice-president of Marketing for Shelby Automobiles (later Shelby American). Working directly for the legendary Carroll Shelby, he was responsible for the company’s brand development, marketing communications and product marketing.  From vehicle introductions to PR campaigns, partner initiatives such as the celebrated Hertz rental car program and establishment of the international club Team Shelby, Owens was key to the reinvigoration of Carroll Shelby’s car company.

One of the reasons Carroll Shelby asked Jim to join his company was Owens’ previous experience with Ford Motor Company. When he joined Shelby in 2007, Jim brought 20 years of automotive experience ranging from working the technician hotline to owner relations management, brand and communications management. He was also part of the Ford Racing, Mustang and Specialty Vehicles Team (SVT) and had eight years working with Ford Performance brands including Ford Racing, SVT and Mustang. 

In his initial stint as Ford Mustang Marketing Manager in 2005-2007, Jim led product development marketing activities including the 2006 Mustang Pony Package, 2007 Mustang GT Cal Special, 2006 Hertz Mustang GTH and 2007 Shelby GT Mustang. He successfully led the Ford Mustang Consumer Marketing and Communications program, which included launching the 2007 Shelby GT 500.

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