Amko Leenarts

Design Director, Ford of Europe

Amko Leenarts is director of Design for Ford of Europe, with responsibility for the exterior and interior design of vehicles developed by Ford of Europe including models for global markets.

Since 2017, Leenarts has led Ford of Europe’s Design team from the Ford Design Studio in Merkenich, Germany, and the company’s commercial vehicle design centre, located at the Dunton Campus in Essex, U.K. Sloping rooflines, sensual surfaces and athletic lines are among Leenarts’ design signatures that can be seen in Ford models including the all-new Mustang-inspired all-electric SUV, and the new Puma SUV-inspired compact crossover.

Previously, as director of Global Interior Design for Ford Motor Company, Leenarts was responsible for future interior design strategy for both the Ford and Lincoln brands worldwide.

Leenarts graduated from the Academy of Arts in Groningen, Netherlands, with a degree in Interior Architecture. With a passion for car design, Leenarts went on to study at the Royal College of Art in London, graduating with a Master’s degree in Vehicle Design.

Leenarts joined Peugeot, where he held several interior design positions, and also led the development of production and concept cars. He joined Ford in 2012.

A native of The Netherlands, Leenarts is married with five children. A long distance runner, Leenarts has also a passion for art, and is a keen amateur artist.