William Clay Ford was born March 14, 1925 in Detroit, Michigan, the son of Edsel and Eleanor Ford and grandson of Henry and Clara Ford. He joined Ford Motor Company in 1949 after graduating from Yale University. He served in various capacities at the company before being promoted in 1952 to manager of Special Product Operations, later known as the Continental Division. In 1955, William Clay Ford was named group director of both Lincoln and Continental Divisions. In 1956, Continental Division was integrated into Lincoln Division, headed by Ben D. Mills. William Clay Ford was promoted to vice-president of product planning and styling in 1957. He also served on the Board of Directors and retired in 2005
From the description of William Clay Ford records, 1913-1981 (bulk 1953-1961). (The Henry Ford). WorldCat record id: 758981926
