CNBC Originals Season 2 Episode 18 Ford: Rebuilding an American Icon

CNBC Originals season 2 episode 18, titled "Ford: Rebuilding an American Icon," is a documentary that delves into the iconic car company's struggles and eventual turnaround under the leadership of CEO Alan Mulally. The episode explores the crisis that faced Ford in the early 2000s, when the company was on the brink of bankruptcy and struggling to compete with foreign automakers.

The documentary begins by introducing Alan Mulally, who was brought in as CEO in 2006 after a successful career at Boeing. With his background in engineering and a focus on collaboration and communication, Mulally aimed to transform Ford into a more efficient and forward-thinking company.

Through interviews with Mulally, as well as other key players in Ford's transformation, the documentary chronicles the steps the company took to turn things around. This includes shedding non-core brands like Volvo and Land Rover, implementing a global product strategy, and cutting costs in innovative ways (such as consolidating global design studios).

The documentary also explores the role of Ford's workforce in the company's transformation. It highlights the "One Ford" initiative, which aimed to break down silos and encourage collaboration across different regions and functions. Through examples like the development of the Ford Fusion, which involved teams from the US, Europe, and Asia, the episode illustrates how Ford's global workforce helped the company create better products and become more competitive.

Another key aspect of Ford's transformation was its focus on sustainability and innovation. The episode explores the development of the Ford F-150, which was redesigned to be lighter and more fuel-efficient, as well as the company's focus on electric and hybrid vehicles. Through interviews with Ford executives and engineers, the documentary shows how the company's approach to innovation and sustainability helped it stay ahead of the curve.

Throughout the documentary, viewers also get a sense of the broader economic and cultural shifts that influenced Ford's transformation. This includes the rise of foreign automakers, the financial crisis of 2008, and the increasing concern over climate change and environmental sustainability.

Overall, "Ford: Rebuilding an American Icon" is a fascinating look at how Ford managed to weather a crisis and emerge as a stronger, more innovative company. Through interviews with key players and a careful analysis of the company's strategy, the episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in business, innovation, or the challenges of leadership.