FordDirect announced that it named former Ford Motor Co. director of U.S. sales Dianne Craig to serve as its new chief executive officer, a move that was effective Tuesday.

Craig brings more than brings 30 years of experience in automotive sales and marketing, as well as deep relationships with Ford and Lincoln dealers across the U.S. and Canada.

Prior to her role as U.S sales director at Ford, Craig also served as president and CEO of Ford of Canada. In that role, she lead Canada’s national headquarters, three regional offices, two branch offices, three vehicle assembly and manufacturing plants and two parts distribution centers.

“We’re excited to welcome Dianne to FordDirect,” FordDirect chairman Bill Keith said in a news release announcing Craig’s appointment. “The board is confident that her experience in the field, leadership and strong dealer relationships will help FordDirect continue the digital transformation to meet our mission of helping Ford and Lincoln dealers provide industry-leading sales and service to our customers.”

Since joining Ford in 1986, Craig’s background includes a variety of sales and marketing positions pertaining to advertising, field operations, product marketing and contests and incentives.

Her field experience includes serving as both a general manager for Ford's Southeast market and a regional sales manager in Pittsburgh.

“I have dedicated my career to working with our amazing Ford and Lincoln dealers,” Craig said. “I am honored to now join the FordDirect team to continue driving the business forward for the good of our dealers, our company and, most importantly, our customers.”