FordDirect announced this week the appointment of Jeff Forrester as the director of purchasing, a new position in the newly created purchasing department at the company.

In the new role, Forrester’s responsibilities will include overseeing vendor management and contracts, working with internal teams to achieve cost reductions, quality maintenance, policy compliance and risk mitigation while driving business objectives. Forrester will report to Beth Hill, the company’s general counsel and chief compliance officer.

Stacey Coopes, FordDirect’s chief executive officer, said the company’s new department is in good hands with Forrester.

“As a practical, experienced executive who has successfully managed large, complex transactions, Jeff is well-positioned to lead and shape the new purchasing department,” Coopes said. “As FordDirect continues its growth, his expertise in purchasing and procurement will be instrumental to the company’s success and long-term sustainability.”

Forrester’s experience includes working for both automotive suppliers and OEMs, including Ford, also including being a senior buyer at General Motors prior to joining FordDirect.