Perhaps he couldn’t wait till native production ended, but Holden boss Gerry Dorizas has decided to submit his resignation, just six months after accepting the position. He’s now the fifth executive to depart in six years.
A statement from Holden said, “Mr. Gerry Dorizas has resigned from the position of Chairman and Managing Director of GM Holden to pursue other opportunities, effective immediately.”
Unlike previous bosses, Dorizas was hired from outside Holden, although he had automotive experience with Volkswagen in India from 2007-2014. Prior to that, he worked at Mercedes-Benz, Fiat, and Hyundai, according to News.com.au.
“General Motors is 100 percent committed to the Holden brand and its long term success in Australia,” said the President of General Motors’ international operations, Stefan Jacoby. He added Dorizas joined Holden in a difficult period and had implemented a number of measures to transform the business from a vehicle manufacturer to an importer.
Holden Chief Financial Officer Jeff Rolfs will now serve as interim managing director during the search for a permanent replacement. A native of Canada, the 22-year GM employee has been with Holden for six months.
Comments
Craziness isn’t it? Melbourne is a great place to live. Big Greek-Australian community to help My Dorizas feel right at home as well. Obviously he is seeing what is going on at Holden, doesn’t like it and thought “$%!@ this, I’m outa here”!
It’s only obvious to someone jumping to conclusions. We really don’t know the details other than what was reported.
Or perhaps I’m aware of more than you think. Just saying…. 😛
Realised his goal of getting Holden to No.1 by 2020 is impossible
No great surprise, he was a sales guy employed to transition Holden into an importer. ( as opposed to an engineering or operations guy selected to run a design/manufacture/ marketer operation.
I guess he realised what was coming and decided to jump ship.
As a marketing grad myself I’m fascinated by the situation as it unfolds here in Australia where we have are going to see (some would say have already begun to see) a singular brand, ie Holden, transition into a both cherished and detested brand at the same time.
I envisage we will see a huge groundswell of affection for the Brand up until Local Production ends, then an absolute loathing for the same brand as we see the rebadged imports coming in.
It’s already not uncommon to hear people say “I’m a Holden man, not a GM man.”
I’ve seen many American’s lamenting the demise of Pontiac and others telling them to get over it. The Australian situation is not the same. “New” Holden will be so disposed you’ll be able to write a PhD on it.
Don’t believe me ?? Tell me I’m wrong in 2018.
Gerry will turn up somewhere selling another brand in another market, pity the next poor sucker !
Sorry…it meant. Despised not disposed……