Audi of America Appoints Jeri Ward as First-Ever Director of Customer Experience

HERNDON, Va., Nov. 14, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Audi of America today announced the appointment of Jeri Ward to director of Customer Experience, a new role within the U.S. organization that focuses on strategy and programs for improving customer experience and loyalty across the company. She assumes the position immediately.

As a member of Audi's executive management team, Ward will report directly to Johan de Nysschen, president of Audi of America.

"Jeri is a proven leader and will be an exceptional addition to our executive management team," said Mr. de Nysschen. "She brings a decade of management experience in consumer marketing and customer strategies, and I am looking forward to her vision and guidance as Audi continues to innovate and refine the customer experience."

In her new role, Ward will also lead consumer insights activities, the Audi Drivers Circle online owner panel and the launch of the new Voice of the Customer program. Ward also will oversee all enthusiast clubs, including the Audi Club of North America, Audi Customer Care Call Center operations, and will work closely with dedicated regional leads to ensure consistency and excellence across the organization.

Previously, Ward served as General Manager, Customer Advocacy, Interactive Marketing and Launch Strategy, where she was responsible with her team for three primary areas of business within Audi of America:  Customer Advocacy, Product Launch as well as interactive marketing such as Audi Digital, Lead Management, Collateral and Customer Relationship Marketing.  

Ward has been with Audi of America since March 2007 when she joined as the General Manager, Marketing Communications and Product Launch.  With the relocation to Herndon, VA, she took on the added responsibilities of interactive marketing.  Prior to joining Audi, Ward worked at Ford Motor Company for nearly six years.  Most recently, she was the Ford Edge Consumer Marketing Manager.

In a June 2009 special report, Advertising Age included Ward on its "Women to Watch 2009" honoree list of innovative and accomplished female marketers of the year. Ward has a Master of Business Administration and Masters of Engineering Management from Kellogg Graduate School of Management at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois.  Ward also holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from Kettering University in Flint, Michigan.

ABOUT AUDI

Audi of America, Inc. and its U.S. dealers offer a full line of German-engineered luxury vehicles. AUDI AG is among the most successful luxury automotive brands globally. During 2010 Audi was the top performing luxury brand in Europe, and broke all-time company sales records in the U.S. Over the next few years, AUDI AG will invest nearly $16 billion on new products and technologies. Visit www.audiusa.com or www.audiusanews.com for more information regarding Audi vehicle and business issues.

SOURCE Audi of America