Philip Caldwell facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Philip Caldwell
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Caldwell in 1981
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| Born | January 27, 1920 Bourneville, Ohio, U.S.
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| Died | July 10, 2013 (aged 93) New Canaan, Connecticut, U.S.
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| Nationality | American |
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| Occupation | Automobile industry executive |
| Employer | Ford Motor Company |
| Awards | Automotive Hall of Fame |
Philip Caldwell (born January 27, 1920 – died July 10, 2013) was a very important leader at the Ford Motor Company. He was the first person to lead Ford who was not part of the famous Ford family. He helped the company become very successful again during a tough time.
Early Life and School
Philip Caldwell was born in Bourneville, Ohio. He grew up in South Charleston, Ohio. He went to Southeastern High School.
He studied economics at Muskingum College and graduated in 1940. He was also part of the school's debate team. Later, in 1942, he earned a special business degree from Harvard Business School.
Career at Ford
Philip Caldwell served as a Lieutenant in the U.S. Navy during World War II.
He started working at Ford in 1953. He led different parts of the company over the years. He was in charge of trucks and also the international business. While leading international operations, he helped launch the Ford Fiesta car in Europe.
In 1978, Philip Caldwell became the president of Ford Motor Company. Then, in 1979, he took over from Henry Ford II as the company's main leader, called the CEO. He also became the Chairman of the Board.
As CEO, Caldwell helped create and launch the Ford Taurus car. This car, and its sister model the Mercury Sable, became a huge success for Ford. He retired from Ford in 1985. After Ford, he worked in finance in New York. In 1990, he was honored by being added to the Automotive Hall of Fame.
Awards and Recognition
Philip Caldwell received several important awards for his work:
- Industry Leader of the Year Award from the Automotive Hall of Fame (1984)
- Golden Plate Award from the American Academy of Achievement (1984)
- Inducted into the Automotive Hall of Fame (1990)
- Harvard Business School created a special teaching position in his honor (1990)
Later Life and Passing
Philip Caldwell passed away at his home in New Canaan, Connecticut, on July 10, 2013. He was 93 years old.
