Executive Shuffle: Docherty Off To GM International Operations

by Manoli Katakis
May 28th, 2010

“We are counting on Susan to make a significant contribution, and I am glad to have her running this critical part of our business.” That’s what GM CEO Ed Whitacre said of appointing her to a new position, three weeks after removing her of VP of Marketing of North America position and replacing her with Joel Ewanick. Susan Docherty’s new job is one of global proportions as she takes on the role of GM International Operations Vice President of Marketing, Sales and Aftersales (which may also hold the title of the longest job title in the world).

Docherty will now report to GM International Operations president Tim Lee and will be in charge of marketing in countries such as the booming China and Brazil, as well as our own Alex Luft’s birthplace – Russia. Susan will start in her new position June 1st and will replace Don Johnson, who has yet to be announced a new role. Some insiders claim Docherty got the boot from her old position due to the negative response from Chevy’s new slogan, “Excellence for Everyone” (which has been very recently changed to a very similar “Everyone Deserves Excellence” motto).

Whatever the case may be, we still wish Ms. Docherty the best of luck and that she makes good decisions.

We have GM’s press release after the jump!

Susan E. Docherty Named GM Vice President, International Operations Sales, Marketing and Aftersales

2010-05-24

DETROIT/SHANGHAI – General Motors today announced that Susan E. Docherty has been appointed GM vice president, International Operations Sales, Marketing and Aftersales, effective June 1. Docherty, 47, will report to Tim Lee, president, GM International Operations (GMIO).

“Growth in China and other emerging markets is important to the company’s future,” said GM Chairman and CEO, Ed Whitacre. “We are counting on Susan to make a significant contribution and I am glad to have her running this critical part of our business.”

GM sells almost 50 percent of all new vehicles within GMIO, which is comprised of more than 90 markets including Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). Most of the GMIO countries are considered emerging markets and are an engine of GMIO growth over the next decade.

Docherty’s role in the region will be to coordinate sales, marketing and aftersales in GM’s Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, Russia and CIS operations. She will have responsibility for market performance, improving the opinion and consideration of Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Holden and Cadillac brands to drive consumer demand for GM vehicles.

“We are fortunate to have Susan joining us at this important time in GMIO’s history, as we focus on growth throughout the region” said Lee. “She brings a wealth of sales and marketing experience with a fresh perspective to the way we approach our business.”

Docherty replaces Don Johnson, vice president, International Operational Sales, Marketing and Aftersales, 53, whose new position at GM will be announced soon.

Most recently, Docherty was GM vice president of U.S. marketing. Previously she served as GM vice president, U.S. Sales, Service and Marketing, responsible for improving year-over-year sales performance, reducing incentive spend, improving residuals as well as marketing and advertising for the company’s vehicle brands. She was also responsible for GM’s relationship with dealers and numerous Dealer Councils. Docherty has extensive sales, service and marketing experience, having held positions with responsibility for Canada, the U.S., and abroad. Most notable is her brand work, including the launch of the 2010 Buick LaCrosse and GMC Terrain.

“Susan has given her all to GM for many years,” said GM president North America, Mark Reuss. “She has set the foundations for our future in North America and takes significant domestic and international experience and expertise to her new position. We wish her every success.”

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