DR WOLFGANG Reitzle has quit his job as the global head of Ford's Premier Automotive Group.

He has accepted a position with German engineering firm Linde as its future chief executive. Ford said Reitzle will continue to assist it as a consultant on product, design and marketing-related issues.

'We are committed to the Premier Automotive Group strategy,' chairman and chief executive officer Bill Ford said. 'These brands are strong and that strength stems from exceptional products and talented people, a combination that will deliver outstanding results.'

Reitzle joined Ford in 1999 after 23 years with BMW.