In her new role Valentic, who will leave Ford on April 1, will be responsible for the global marketing efforts for the agency's Microsoft account.
The move marks a return to advertising for Valentic, who began her career at Leo Burnett in 1985 and worked on clients including Coca-Cola, Marlboro and Pillsbury.
She was promoted to the role of vice-president of global market in March 2001. Prior to this, she instigated advertising campaigns for the launch of the Ford Focus and work on Ford's SUVs. She joined the company in June 1998 as marketing communications manager at Ford Division.
Ford said its global marketing organisation would be realigned under Jim O'Connor, group vice-president of North American marketing, sales and service.
O'Connor said: "We thank Jan for her many contributions to Ford, including the many ways in which she integrated the voice of our customers into or business operations."
Valentic, who said that she grew up in a family of car nuts and describes herself as a "gear head" said: "I'm thankful for the opportunity to have worked on one of the greatest brands and business in the world. I have great affection for the company and its people and plan on being a loyal Ford customers."
Y&R Brands includes the Y&R advertising agency as well as the public relations firm Burson-Marsteller and the brand design agency Landor Associates.
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