Ford's VP of communications Ray Day is tasked with keeping the company's current momentum going in the midst of a tough year for the US auto industry.

Of the three US automakers, the limelight this year has been kindest to Ford. After completing the worst year in the company's history in 2008, Ford has worked to transform the media narrative around its brand from one of survival to one about surpassing expectations.

The positive media blitz is paying off. The communications ...