General Motors Co. announced changes to its product development team, introducing a new role to oversee global regions and streamlining its organization. This strategic move aims to expedite the implementation of new vehicle and technology programs, and fast-track the company's go-to-market strategies, particularly in the realm of electric vehicles (EVs).
The restructuring is primarily influenced by the retirement of Doug Parks, GM's executive vice president of global product development, purchasing and supply chain. Over nearly four decades at GM, Parks has been a pivotal figure in the development of numerous vehicles across all GM brands. His contributions have been integral to the foundation of GM's current generation of EVs.
"We've spent years preparing GM to transition to an all-electric future, and Doug's leadership has been pivotal. We are grateful for his many contributions to GM's success," said GM Chair and CEO Mary Barra.
In the wake of Parks' retirement, Ken Morris will be promoted to senior vice president, product programs, product safety and motorsports. Morris, currently vice president of global vehicle and propulsion teams, will continue leading global vehicle programs while taking on additional responsibilities in global product safety, launch excellence and motorsports product development.
Simultaneously, Josh Tavel, currently global vice president of customer care and aftersales, will become senior vice president of energy storage and propulsion, R&D and manufacturing engineering. Tavel's new role will play a crucial part in integrating GM s products and processes, especially in areas vital to the acceleration of the company's electrification strategy, including battery development and manufacturing engineering.
In a move to foster increased collaboration across global markets, GM has also announced leadership changes. Rory Harvey, currently executive vice president and president of GM North America, will assume a newly created role as executive vice president and president of global markets. Harvey's new position involves working closely with the global regional teams to deliver the appropriate vehicles, software and technologies to international customers.
Moreover, Marissa West, presently president and managing director of GM Canada, will join the global markets leadership team as senior vice president and president of GM North America, reporting directly to Harvey.
These leadership changes are set to take effect Jan. 2, 2024.
