Mr Ovenden was previously managing director and president of Ford Russia, as part of a three-year assignment, but returned to Britain as managing director in August 2011. He was then appointed to the dual role as chairman and managing director in April 2013.   

Jim Farley, executive vice president and president, Europe, Middle East and Africa, said: “I am delighted to welcome Mark back to Russia following a successful period improving sales and increasing the quality of our business in Britain. He is well equipped to deal with the current difficult market conditions in this market as well as the tremendous potential it offers.”

Andy Barratt has been named as his replacement at Ford of Britain, effective from 1 July 2015.

Mr Barratt was previously appointed director, sales, Ford of Britain, in July 2011, prior to this he was director, Ford Customer Service Division (FCSD), Ford of Britain. He previously served as a district sales manager in Ford of Britain and has also led the UK sales teams for five years in the Eastern and Northern districts.

Roelant de Waard, vice president of marketing, sales and service, Ford of Europe, said: "Andy has a wealth of experience in the UK business that makes him well placed to manage Ford's biggest European market and to take on the chairman’s responsibilities, representing Ford on key issues such as the future of UK automotive manufacturing, skills, research and development, and the low-emissions agenda.”

Andy Barratt’s replacement at Ford of Britain will be announced separately.