JOHN FORD NAMED DISTINGUISHED FELLOW OF ACADEMY OF MARKETING SCIENCE

John B. Ford, professor of marketing and international business at Old Dominion University, was named a Distinguished Fellow of the Academy of Marketing Science for his contributions to the field. The announcement was made at the academy's annual conference May 25 in Coral Gables, Fla.

The distinction recognizes exemplary service to the academy and scholarly contributions to the advancement of marketing thought over a sustained period of time. No more than 3 percent of all active members of the academy can receive this honor.

Ford joined Old Dominion's Department of Business Administration in 1985. He teaches doctoral-level seminars in the history of marketing thought, international marketing theory and marketing strategy, along with M.B.A. courses in the marketing of services and marketing strategy. His research examines cross-cultural advertising, consumer perceptions and their impact upon purchase behavior, and marketing research issues in a cross-cultural context.

He often makes presentations to civic groups on the importance of cultural awareness and sensitivity, dealing with foreign-born employees, image management, perceptual mapping and brand consistency. He has taught at universities in England, Japan and New Zealand and has extensive experience in Asia and Europe. Ford's work has been published in such academic journals as: Journal of the Academy of Marketing Science, Journal of Advertising, Journal of Advertising Research, Journal of International Marketing, International Marketing Review, Industrial Marketing Management and Journal of World Business.

Ford received his M.B.A. and Ph.D. from the University of Georgia and a bachelor's degree in business administration from Yale University. Prior to his doctoral studies, he was an international sales manager, stockbroker, executive recruiter and management consultant specializing in mergers and acquisitions.