Patrick Hennessy (industrialist) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Patrick Hennessy
|
|
|---|---|
| Born | 18 April 1898 |
| Died | 13 March 1981 |
| Nationality | British |
| Known for | Auto-industry executive |
| Spouse(s) | Dorothy Margaret Davis (m. 1923-1949; her death) |
Sir Patrick Hennessy was an important British businessman. He was born in County Cork, Ireland, on April 18, 1898. He became a very successful leader in the car industry.
He passed away on March 13, 1981.
Contents
Sir Patrick Hennessy: A Car Industry Leader
Sir Patrick Hennessy played a big role in the car industry. He helped shape the Ford company in Britain for many years. His career showed how hard work can lead to great success.
Early Life and War Service
Patrick Hennessy grew up in Ireland. When he was young, a huge war started. This was the First World War, from 1914 to 1918.
During this time, he joined the British Army. He served with a group called the Royal Inniskilling Fusiliers. He was a soldier throughout the entire war.
Joining the Ford Company
After the war, Patrick Hennessy started his career in 1920. He began working for Henry Ford & Son in Cork, Ireland. This was the start of his long journey with Ford.
In 1931, he moved to England. England was now a separate country from Ireland. He became the Purchasing Manager for Ford of Britain. This meant he was in charge of buying all the parts Ford needed.
Rising Through the R Ranks at Ford
Patrick Hennessy quickly moved up in the company. He was promoted many times because he was very good at his job.
- In 1939, he became the General Manager.
- In 1948, he was made the Managing Director. This meant he was in charge of how the company was run every day.
- In 1956, he became the Chairman of Ford of Britain. This was the highest position in the company.
Leading Ford of Britain
As Chairman, Sir Patrick Hennessy also acted as the Chief Executive. This meant he made all the big decisions for the company. He held these important roles until 1963.
He retired from being Chairman on May 3, 1968. He was 70 years old at the time. After him, Leonard Crossland took over as Chairman of Ford of Britain.
His Family Life
In 1923, Patrick Hennessy got married. His wife was Dorothy Margaret Davis. She was from Boardmills in County Down.
They had a family together. They had two sons and one daughter.
Being Knighted
In 1941, Patrick Hennessy was given a special honor. He was made a Knight by the King. This is why he was called "Sir" Patrick Hennessy. It showed how important and respected he was.
Sir Patrick Hennessy passed away in West Essex, England, in early 1981.
