General Motors appoints Barra to lead global product development

General Motors on January 20 named Mary Barra senior vice president for global product development, to lead the design, engineering, program management and quality of vehicles for the company’s 11 brands around the world.

“Mary will bring a fresh perspective to the critically important job of developing vehicles that delight global customers,” said Dan Akerson, GM chairman and CEO. “Her broad experience in engineering, manufacturing and staff functions, combined with the ability to collaborate and build strong relationships will enhance the company’s ability to deliver the products today’s consumers demand.”

Barra will lead the product development organization responsible for managing all global vehicle programs for GM. In this position, she will continue to focus on the customer in the areas of global design, vehicle and powertrain engineering, program management and quality with the goal of delivering the world's best vehicles. With more than 36,000 members, her team will also manage global strategic product alliances.

“Knowing that today’s global customer expects even more from their GM vehicle means we have to work harder than ever to exceed those expectations,” said Barra. “I’m excited by the opportunity associated with this new challenge and pleased to be joining such a strong team with deep technical knowledge and experience.”

Recognized for bringing diverse groups together for a common purpose, Barra was appointed vice president for global human resources in 2009, to initiate change in the company’s culture during the largest restructuring in GM’s history. Prior to this appointment, she had been vice president for global manufacturing engineering. Barra has also held a number of engineering and staff positions, including plant manager, Detroit Hamtramck Assembly Plant; executive director of competitive operations engineering; and general director of internal communications for GM North America.

Barra was named one of Automotive News’ 100 Leading Women in the North American Auto Industry” in 2005, and again in 2010. In 2010, she also earned Kettering Alumni Association’s Management Achievement Award for her specific contributions with positive and lasting effects in the field of management.

Barra, 49, will continue to report to Akerson and serve on the executive committee. Her move becomes effective February 1.

A successor for Barra in global human resources will be announced at a later date.