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Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Masamichi Kogai new Mazda president and CEO]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/masamichi-kogai-new-mazda-president-and-ceo/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/masamichi-kogai-new-mazda-president-and-ceo/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/05/10/masamichi-kogai-new-mazda-president-and-ceo/#commentsFiled under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Japan, Mazda

There's some executive rearranging going on in the top suite at Mazda Motor Corporation in Japan, with current CEO Takashi Yamanouchi telling reporters there "I'd like to hand over the work to younger people" now that the company has returned to profitability. Yamanouchi became CEO on November 19, 2008 of an independent Mazda that had to fight for its future in the immediate aftermath of the global financial crisis. What followed was four years of losses before finally getting back to black last year.

Masamichi Kogai (pictured) will be appointed the new president and CEO on June 25, pending approval at the company's annual general shareholders' meeting. Kogai assisted Seita Kanai with the production-efficiency initiative that Mazda called Mono Tsukuri Innovation, which worked to give export-dependent Mazda the best chance at profitability in spite of a rising yen. Kogai, lately in charge of production and purchasing, has been with the company since 1977 and worked in areas from R&D to logistics.

Kanai, who headed the Mono Tsukuri effort and was among the leadership on Skyactiv, will be promoted from executive vice president to vice chairman. Akira Marumoto will become executive VP of Mazda and assistant to new president Kogai. Yamanouchi will remain Chairman of the Board. There's a short press release below to make it official.

Continue reading Masamichi Kogai new Mazda president and CEO

Masamichi Kogai new Mazda president and CEO originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 10 May 2013 09:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceomasamichi kogaimazdamono tsukuriseita kanaiTakashi YamanouchiFri, 10 May 2013 09:33:00 EST

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http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/05/10/masamichi-kogai-new-mazda-president-and-ceo/20564795/article-detail.xml

20564795 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/masamichi-kogai-mazda-ceo_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/05/masamichi-kogai-mazda-ceo.jpg <![CDATA[Ex-GM VP LaNeve takes over Lincoln ad agency]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/ex-gm-vp-laneve-takes-over-lincoln-ad-agency/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/ex-gm-vp-laneve-takes-over-lincoln-ad-agency/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/04/10/ex-gm-vp-laneve-takes-over-lincoln-ad-agency/#commentsFiled under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Marketing/Advertising, Lincoln

Those of you that caught yesterday's op-ed about Lincoln will have heard already, but Mark LaNeve has taken the helm at Team Detroit. Once the North American vice president of sales, service and marketing for General Motors, LaNeve will now head up the agency that handles all of Ford advertising. LaNeve will also run the account for Lincoln. While at GM from 2001 to 2009, the exec oversaw ad campaigns like Cadillac's Breakthrough and sales initiatives like "Employee Pricing for Everyone."

He left in 2009 to join Allstate as chief marketing officer, oversaw the creation of the Mayhem ad spots and was moved into the role of VP of agency operations overseeing Allstate's 10,000 agents. He resigned from the insurer in February 2012 for personal reasons and joined Team Detroit in August 2012 as chief operating officer, in charge of satellite offices in New York and internationally. He replaces ex-CEO Cameron McNaughton, and will continue to hold the title of COO.

Lincoln is trying to get its 2013 back to rights after putting big dollar commercials for the 2013 MKZ on television then having production glitches preventing cars from getting to dealerships. With rumors of a relaunch in the works, it's no surprise LaNeve has been given the reins - and from here it looks like the brand is desperate for the kind of magic he's proved he can marshal. Perhaps he can start by calling a mulligan on the renaming exercise that gave us the hoary "Lincoln Motor Company" and go back to oh, say, "Lincoln." Then he can ask the product folks to get to work on the MKC concept...

Ex-GM VP LaNeve takes over Lincoln ad agency originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Apr 2013 18:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingceofordlincolnlincoln mkzmark lanevemarketingpromotionteam detroitWed, 10 Apr 2013 18:32:00 EST

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http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/10/ex-gm-vp-laneve-takes-over-lincoln-ad-agency/20534680/article-detail.xml

20534680 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mark-laneve-250_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/mark-laneve-250.jpg <![CDATA[Zetsche's CEO tenure extended through 2016 at Daimler]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/24/zetsches-ceo-tenure-extended-through-2016-at-daimler/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/24/zetsches-ceo-tenure-extended-through-2016-at-daimler/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/24/zetsches-ceo-tenure-extended-through-2016-at-daimler/#commentsFiled under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Mercedes-Benz, Earnings/Financials

There appear to be two takes on Daimler CEO Dieter Zetsche having his contract extended for three more years, to 2016. A report in The Detroit News quotes the chairman of Daimler's supervisory board, Manfred Bischoff, talking up the stability at the top, "With today's extensions of the contracts of Dieter Zetsche and Thomas Weber, we are maintaining the important continuity at the top executive level." Bischoff also stated that that Zetsche has a plan to "further enhance Daimler's overall performance."

Over at Reuters, though, the three-year extension was seen as a lack of complete confidence in Zetsche's plans, since his contract was supposedly meant to be extended by five years. A spokesman said the board decided to extend executive contracts by only three years if the person was 60 or would turn 60 during the contract, but that was news to observers. Zetsche wants to make Mercedes-Benz the top selling luxury manufacturer globally by 2020, but has fallen to third place behind Audi and BMW. It hasn't held the top spot 2005, and investors judged it valued at half that of BMW at the end of 2012 once Daimler's truck business was subtracted.

Analysts cites the fact that Daimler stock hasn't bested its rivals but twice in twelve years, and that the company revised its profit target downward last year by nearly one billion euros, warning of stagnant earnings this year and will miss its original margin target for 2013.

Zetsche's CEO tenure extended through 2016 at Daimler originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 24 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceodaimlerdaimler ceodieter zetschemercedes-benzSun, 24 Feb 2013 10:00:00 EST

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http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/24/zetsches-ceo-tenure-extended-through-2016-at-daimler/20474398/article-detail.xml

20474398 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/daimler-ceo-dieter-zetsche-smiling_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/daimler-ceo-dieter-zetsche-smiling.jpg <![CDATA[Ford shakes up executives, Mulally to stay through 2014]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/01/ford-shakes-up-executives-mulally-to-stay-through-2014/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/01/ford-shakes-up-executives-mulally-to-stay-through-2014/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/01/ford-shakes-up-executives-mulally-to-stay-through-2014/#commentsFiled under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Ford, Lincoln

Ford shored up its executive team this morning, announcing not only a series of promotions, but confirming that popular CEO Alan Mulally will remain at Ford through at least 2014. The announcements arrive amid speculation about Ford's succession plan and who would ultimately replace Mulally, 67, who has been credited with Ford's recent revival.

Bill Ford, the great-grandson of Henry Ford and executive chairman at Ford, made the announcement during a last-minute press conference Thursday. He also reviewed a series of other promotions to firm up Ford's top executive team.

"The strength of our people and stability of our team are competitive advantages for Ford," said Bill Ford. "We are fortunate to have Alan's continued leadership as well as talented senior leaders throughout our company who are developing and working together and delivering on our plan."

Mark Fields, the president of the Americas, will move into the chief operating officer's position making him the No. 2 executive at Ford and responsible for all business operations, while Mulally will remain at the top developing long-term strategic planning.

Other key appointments include: Joe Heinrichs, President of The Americas; Stephen Odell, President of Europe, Middle East and Africa; Jim Farley, Head of Global Marketing, Sales and Service, as well as head of global Lincoln; David Schoch, President Asia Pacific; and John Lawler, CEO of Ford Motor China. Scroll down to read the official press release.

Continue reading Ford shakes up executives, Mulally to stay through 2014

Ford shakes up executives, Mulally to stay through 2014 originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 01 Nov 2012 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan mulallyceofordford motorjim farleylincolnmark fieldsThu, 01 Nov 2012 10:01:00 EST

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http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/01/ford-shakes-up-executives-mulally-to-stay-through-2014/20367731/article-detail.xml

20367731 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/136752718_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/136752718.jpg <![CDATA[Volvo CEO admits automaker's cars are too complicated]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/25/volvo-ceo-admits-automakers-cars-are-too-complicated/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/25/volvo-ceo-admits-automakers-cars-are-too-complicated/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/25/volvo-ceo-admits-automakers-cars-are-too-complicated/#commentsFiled under: Hybrid, Europe, Technology, Volvo, Luxury

Volvo CEO Stefan Jacoby

Volvo CEO Stefan Jacoby has said his company's products are "too complicated for the consumer," according to Automotive News. Jacoby said 75 percent of Volvo customers don't know "all the possibilities they have with their car." He contrasted the automaker with Apple's intuitive products, which make consumers feel in control of a device instead of overwhelmed by its capabilities. The executive also made it clear that in order for the company to thrive, it needs to better cater to the next generation of car buyers. That means finding ways to improve connectivity in the vehicle.

Jacoby also reinforced his belief in the company's upcoming plug-in hybrid models, saying the vehicles are the "mid-term future" for Volvo. The CEO mentioned that either gasoline or diesel plug-ins will play a big part in the Swedish automaker's product portfolio, and that in the future, every Volvo model could bow with a plug-in hybrid version as well.

Volvo CEO admits automaker's cars are too complicated originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Jun 2012 10:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleceocomplicateddiesel hybriddiesel plug-in hybridplug-in hybridstefan jacobytechnologyvolvovolvo ceovolvo ceo stefan jacobyMon, 25 Jun 2012 10:32:00 EST

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http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/25/volvo-ceo-admits-automakers-cars-are-too-complicated/20264974/article-detail.xml

20264974 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/jacoby-plug-in-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/jacoby-plug-in-628.jpg <![CDATA[VW considering new midsize utility for NA; Polo and Up! still on table]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/vw-considering-new-midsize-utility-for-na-polo-and-up-still-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/vw-considering-new-midsize-utility-for-na-polo-and-up-still-on/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/06/01/vw-considering-new-midsize-utility-for-na-polo-and-up-still-on/#commentsFiled under: SUV, Etc., Europe, Crossover, Volkswagen

Jonathan Browning - Volkswagen NA CEO

We've already heard word that Volkswagen may be considering a new Alltrack version of its Jetta for the North American Market, but TheDetroitBureau.com reports the automaker is also looking at other high-riding options. Jonathan Browning, Volkswagen Group of America CEO, says a new mid-sized SUV may show up in the lineup alongside the next-generation Tiguan (which itself is likely to get a trio of variants). The unnamed model would fit below the Touareg in size and price and would likely be co-developed engineers in the U.S. and those in another part of the world. So, when can we expect to see the model? Development is currently in its earliest stages, which means we'll have to wait until 2015 at the earliest.

Meanwhile, Browning makes it clear Volkswagen is also keen to flesh out its lineup with other new models, including a new mid-sized sedan. A sub-Golf offering may also show up from Europe, which means the automaker may bring over either the Polo or the new Up! micro car. The blossoming stable is part of an effort to keep the company's recent sales growth on track. Volkswagen has made it clear the company wants to triple its companywide sales by 2018.

VW considering new midsize utility for NA; Polo and Up! still on table originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 01 Jun 2012 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceocrossovercuvjonathan browningsuvtiguantouaregvolkswagenvolkswagen ceovolkswagen tiguanvolkswagen touaregFri, 01 Jun 2012 08:45:00 EST

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20248507 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/browning-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/browning-628.jpg <![CDATA[Former Ford chairman, CEO Red Poling dead at 86]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/former-ford-chairman-ceo-red-poling-dead-at-86/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/former-ford-chairman-ceo-red-poling-dead-at-86/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/15/former-ford-chairman-ceo-red-poling-dead-at-86/#commentsFiled under: Ford

Red Poling

The Ford Motor Company and the automotive industry as a whole are mourning the loss today of Harold "Red" Poling, who passed away on May 12 in Pacific Grove, California, at the age of 86.

A Michigan native, Poling was a navy veteran and a graduate of Monmouth College and Indiana University, where he received his MBA. He started working for Ford as an intern at the Rouge steel mill way back in 1950, rising up the corporate ladder over the years as a financial expert.

In March of 1980, after running Ford's North American and European operations, Poling was named president and CEO of the entire company, and ten years later was elected its chairman.

An inductee to the Automotive Hall of Fame and an active member of his community, Poling lead Ford through lean times and into profitability, ushering an enormous quantity of vehicles into production over his many years of leadership. Scroll down for an official statement from his successor Bill Ford.

Continue reading Former Ford chairman, CEO Red Poling dead at 86

Former Ford chairman, CEO Red Poling dead at 86 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 15 May 2012 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceochairmanchairman of the boardchief executivechief executive officerfordharold polingpolingpresidentred polingTue, 15 May 2012 16:32:00 EST

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20238567 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/redpoling_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/redpoling.jpg <![CDATA[Mulally awarded $58.3M in stock for succesful turnaround]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/mulally-awarded-58-3m-in-stock-for-succesful-turnaround/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/mulally-awarded-58-3m-in-stock-for-succesful-turnaround/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/07/mulally-awarded-58-3m-in-stock-for-succesful-turnaround/#commentsFiled under: Ford, Earnings/Financials

Ford CEO Alan Mulally looking happy

Ford CEO Alan Mulally has been awarded $58.3 million in company stock for his hand in righting the automaker's fortunes. After taxes, the CEO will receive $34.5 million. According to Automotive News, Mulally will also receive salary and benefits for 2011 on top of the his stock incentives. The stock was handed out as part of an incentive plan associated with the company's performance in 2009. The report says Ford has earned $29.5 billion since then after suffering through $30.1 billion in losses between 2006 and 2008. All told, Mulally has been awarded $100 million in stock in the past two years.

Ford, meanwhile, says that the company believes in a compensation philosophy that ties executives to the interests of the company's shareholders. That's all fine and good, but Mulally's pay scale brought the ire of the United Auto Workers last year, when UAW President Bob King said the compensation was "morally wrong." Zing.

Morally wrong or not, it's hard to argue with Mulally's performance at Ford. The CEO nailed nearly all of his performance targets for 2009 and kept Ford afloat without delving into the federal government's infamous Troubled Asset Relief Program.

Mulally awarded $58.3M in stock for succesful turnaround originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 07 Mar 2012 16:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan mulallyalan mulally stockceofordford ceoford ceo stockford stockWed, 07 Mar 2012 16:19:00 EST

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http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/07/mulally-awarded-58-3m-in-stock-for-succesful-turnaround/20188232/article-detail.xml

20188232 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/mulally-happy_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/mulally-happy.jpg <![CDATA[Tom LaSorda named Fisker CEO [UPDATED]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/28/tom-lasorda-named-fisker-ceo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/28/tom-lasorda-named-fisker-ceo/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/28/tom-lasorda-named-fisker-ceo/#commentsFiled under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Fisker

Tom LaSorda, former Chrysler CEO and current Fisker vice chairman, has been named CEO of Fisker Automotive Group.

LaSorda takes the reigns from the company's namesake, Henrik Fisker, and will continue to help manage the up-start automaker with the help of former BMW, Ford and General Motors board members.

LaSorda saw Chrysler through its most recent troubling times, including its botched marriage to Daimler, the unholy offloading to Cerberus and finally its sale to Fiat.

We'll have more information when Fisker makes the official announcement shortly.

UPDATE: Henrik Fisker is moving aside to fill the role of Executive Chairmain. LaSorda says he's excited about the company's prospects, particularly after seeing what's in store with Project Nina and has invested in the company ahead of his appointment. Full release after the break.

Continue reading Tom LaSorda named Fisker CEO [UPDATED]

Tom LaSorda named Fisker CEO [UPDATED] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Feb 2012 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceofiskertom lasordatom lasorda fisker ceoTue, 28 Feb 2012 12:59:00 EST

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http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/28/tom-lasorda-named-fisker-ceo/20181784/article-detail.xml

20181784 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/fisker-names-former-chrysler-chief-tom-lasorda-as-vice-chairman_thumbnail.jpeg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/fisker-names-former-chrysler-chief-tom-lasorda-as-vice-chairman.jpeg <![CDATA[Ousted Mercedes-Benz USA boss Lieb fighting dismissal in court]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/ousted-mercedes-benz-usa-boss-lieb-fighting-dismissal-in-court/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/ousted-mercedes-benz-usa-boss-lieb-fighting-dismissal-in-court/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/27/ousted-mercedes-benz-usa-boss-lieb-fighting-dismissal-in-court/#commentsFiled under: Europe, Government/Legal, Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Mercedes-Benz

Ernst Lieb, former Mercedes-Benz USA CEO

Deposed Mercedes-Benz U.S.A. chief Ernst Lieb may be gone, but he won't soon be forgotten. Lieb is suing Benz parent company Daimler for wrongful dismissal, with a German court date scheduled for March, according to Automotive News.

The automaker claims Lieb, 56 improperly spent a six-figure sum on his company-owned home in Mahwah, N.J., making "incomplete, inaccurate and manipulative statements" when questioned about the expenditures in an audit. "None of the accusations are justified," said Lieb's lawyer, according to the report.

The former CEO's counsel reportedly plans to argue that Lieb was "one of dozens" of executives who were "fired unfairly" as part of a sweeping crackdown on ethics violations.

Lieb was terminated in October, and eventually replaced by Steve Cannon earlier this month.

Ousted Mercedes-Benz USA boss Lieb fighting dismissal in court originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 27 Dec 2011 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceoernst liebliebmercedesmercedes-benzmercedes-benz usaTue, 27 Dec 2011 15:31:00 EST

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http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/27/ousted-mercedes-benz-usa-boss-lieb-fighting-dismissal-in-court/20135718/article-detail.xml

20135718 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/ernst-lieb-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/ernst-lieb-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mercedes-Benz USA announces Cannon as new CEO]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/16/mercedes-benz-usa-announces-cannon-as-new-ceo/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/16/mercedes-benz-usa-announces-cannon-as-new-ceo/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/16/mercedes-benz-usa-announces-cannon-as-new-ceo/#commentsFiled under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Mercedes-Benz

Steve Cannon, MBUSA

Mercedes-Benz USA has named marketing boss Steve Cannon as its new Chief Executive Officer effective January 1. Automotive News reports that Cannon, who has been with MB for 20 years, is only the second American to hold the post in the luxury brand's long history.

Financial boss Herbert Werner had been serving as interim CEO after the departure of MB USA boss Ernst Lieb. Lieb left the company in disgrace after a scandal was uncovered involving improper use of company funds.

According to Automotive News, dealers appear happy with the choice of Cannon. Michael Cantanucci, who runs the Mercedes dealer board here in the States, called the move "a good decision," and added that dealers are "excited and we're pleased."

Cannon, who was a U.S. Army Airborne Ranger before signing on at Mercedes, points out that the company's dealer relations are at a 20-year high, and tells AN that his appointment shows "it wasn't necessary to take someone from the global organization or Stuttgart and parachute them in to run this show."

Mercedes-Benz USA announces Cannon as new CEO originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceoernst liebherb wernermbusamercedesmercedes-benzmercedes-benz usasteve cannonFri, 16 Dec 2011 18:30:00 EST

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http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/16/mercedes-benz-usa-announces-cannon-as-new-ceo/20129534/article-detail.xml

20129534 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/steve-cannon-mb-usa_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/steve-cannon-mb-usa.jpg <![CDATA[List of Mulally successors narrowed down to four]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/28/list-of-mulally-successors-narrowed-down-to-four/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/28/list-of-mulally-successors-narrowed-down-to-four/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/28/list-of-mulally-successors-narrowed-down-to-four/#commentsFiled under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Ford

Ford executives

How do you replace the man credited by Time Magazine with managing "the biggest business turnaround of the Great Recession?" That's a very good question, and one that the Ford board of directors is grappling with as company CEO Alan Mulally edges closer to retirement age.

At 66, Mulally isn't exactly far past his prime, and Executive Chairman Bill Ford is said to be in no hurry to welcome in a successor. That said, the timing of Mulally's exit from Ford is likely to be a determining factor in the decision to hire his replacement.

Current CFO Lewis Booth, at 63 years of age, could potentially hold the seat at the head of Ford for a few years if Mulally were to retire earlier than expected. If that doesn't happen, Mark Fields, Ford's President of the Americas, is cited as the most likely choice as its next CEO.

There are two other potential candidates, reports Automotive News. Jim Farley, vice president of global marketing, is on the short list, as is Joe Hinrichs, who heads Ford's Asia Pacific and African operations.

Insiders suggest that Ford may choose to keep Alan Mulally on its payroll in some unknown capacity to help mentor his replacement. Such a move could potentially keep both the rank-and-file Ford workers and Wall Street investors satiated.

List of Mulally successors narrowed down to four originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan mulallyceofordford ceojim farleyjoe hinrickslewis boothmark fieldsMon, 28 Nov 2011 14:00:00 EST

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http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/28/list-of-mulally-successors-narrowed-down-to-four/20115537/article-detail.xml

20115537 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/ford-executives_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/ford-executives.jpg <![CDATA[Tata CEO Forster steps down after only 18 months]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/tata-ceo-forster-steps-down-after-only-18-months/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/tata-ceo-forster-steps-down-after-only-18-months/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/09/12/tata-ceo-forster-steps-down-after-only-18-months/#commentsFiled under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Jaguar, Land Rover, UK, India, Tata

Carl-Peter Forster

Tata Motors has announced that its group chief executive officer, Carl-Peter Forster, resigned with immediate effect, only 18 months after joining the company.

Tata, India's leading maker of trucks and buses, and owner of Jaguar and Land Rover, says Forster resigned due to "unavoidable personal circumstances," but will remain a non-executive member of Tata Motors' board. Forster stated:

I deeply regret that my personal circumstances make it difficult for me to continue to perform the challenging duties of managing the thriving global activities of the Tata Motors Group with its main activities in India and the UK and increasingly in additional overseas markets.

Forster's departure comes as Tata Motors continues its lengthy search for a successor to Ratan Tata, who is set to retire soon as chairman of the sprawling conglomerate. Forster joined Tata in February 2010 after leaving Opel, with his focus on turning around the then-struggling Jaguar-Land Rover division. Tata Motors is currently seeking Forster's replacement.

Continue reading Tata CEO Forster steps down after only 18 months

Tata CEO Forster steps down after only 18 months originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 12 Sep 2011 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carl-peter forsterceoceo forsterforsterjaguarland roverresignationtatatata motorsMon, 12 Sep 2011 07:59:00 EST

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20039488 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/carl-peter-forster_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/02/carl-peter-forster.jpg <![CDATA[Infographic: Wage gap between CEO and employees]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/19/infographic-wage-gap-between-ceo-and-employees/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/19/infographic-wage-gap-between-ceo-and-employees/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/19/infographic-wage-gap-between-ceo-and-employees/#commentsFiled under: Earnings/Financials

As you're probably already aware, Ford CEO Alan Mulally earned well over $26 million last year. Fiat and Chrysler head Sergio Marchionne was next in the ranks of highest-paid CEOs among automakers with $17 million in compensation, and Nissan/Renault chief Carlos Ghosn was third at $13 million.

None of this is news, really. We already knew that. But what you may not know is how those figures compare to the income of the average autoworker. According to the infographic you see above (click here to enlarge), the average annual salary earned by autoworkers in America as of February 2010 was $48,000... but that figure varies a good deal, depending on factors such as the company paying the bill and the number of years employed.

For a more complete breakdown of CEO compensation versus the rest of an automakers' employees, check out the full graphic after the jump.

Continue reading Infographic: Wage gap between CEO and employees

Infographic: Wage gap between CEO and employees originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan mulallyautoworker wagesautoworkerscarlos ghosnceoceo wagesdan akersonsergio marchionneFri, 19 Aug 2011 14:30:00 EST

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20022048 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/ceo-wages-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/ceo-wages-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Fiat looking to up Chrysler stake to 46% by June]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/15/report-fiat-looking-to-up-chrysler-stake-to-46-by-june/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/15/report-fiat-looking-to-up-chrysler-stake-to-46-by-june/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/04/15/report-fiat-looking-to-up-chrysler-stake-to-46-by-june/#commentsFiled under: Government/Legal, Chrysler, Fiat

Sergio Marchionne

Fiat has been in a big, fat hurry to increase its stake in Chrysler, as the Italian automaker has managed to increase ownership from 20 percent to 30 percent so far this year. A report out of Automotive News Europe (via Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera) shows that the stakes may raise once again by June of 2011.

From the onset, the first goal for Fiat has been to hit 35 percent ownership by the end of 2011, but sources tell AN that CEO Sergio Marchionne and his team are now aiming for 46 percent this summer. To hit that number, the automaker will need to pay down U.S. and Canadian government debt from the original $7.4 billion to under $4 billion. On Monday, Marchionne reportedly said that Fiat planned to speak with banks in an effort to refinance the loans. Earlier in the year, Marchionne referred to the government loans as "shyster loans," which, though he later apologized, tells us everything we need to know about the CEO's motivation.

As part of that agreement, Fiat has the option to pay down $1.14 billion in debt by the end of 2011, while waiting until next year will effectively raise the rate to $1.37 billion. That translates to a 20-percent interest rate for the year, which is high for a credit card, much less a government loan.

The next step for Fiat is to achieve another five percent ownership in Chrysler by the end of 2011. To do this, the automaker will need to sell a 40+ mile per gallon Dodge (likely a rebadged Fiat) and sell it in the U.S.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req. | Image: Massimo Pinca/AP]

Report: Fiat looking to up Chrysler stake to 46% by June originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Apr 2011 09:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceochryslerchrysler ownershipfiatfiat chryslergovernment loanssergio marchionneFri, 15 Apr 2011 09:30:00 EST

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19912964 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/marchionne-lean-hand-gesture_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/10/marchionne-lean-hand-gesture.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat gets a new chief executive]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/20/fiat-gets-a-new-chief-executive/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/20/fiat-gets-a-new-chief-executive/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/20/fiat-gets-a-new-chief-executive/#commentsFiled under: Europe, Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Fiat

Your eyes doth not deceive you: Fiat has a new CEO. But before we get ahead of ourselves, Sergio Marchionne isn't going anywhere. The Italian-Canadian executive mastermind directing both the Fiat and Chrysler groups is not relinquishing his position. But a number of years ago, he did hand over control of the Fiat brand to a subordinate. That position has changed hands a couple of times since then, and has now been handed over to a new talent.

After years of experience in the industry, having worked for Ford and Toyota, Andrea Formica has been named CEO of the Fiat brand. And in typical Fiat style, he'll also have to juggle another portfolio in the group, directing sales for Fiat, Alfa Romeo and Lancia, as well as Chrysler's operations in Europe.

Vacating the position is Lorenzo Sistino, who moves over to head Fiat's International Operations while also running Fiat Professional, the company's commercial vehicles division. Full announcement in the press release after the jump.

[Source: Fiat]

Continue reading Fiat gets a new chief executive

Fiat gets a new chief executive originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Sep 2010 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Andrea FormicaAndreaFormicaceochief executivechief executive officerChiefExecutiveChiefExecutiveOfficerexecutivefiatLorenzo SistinoLorenzoSistinoMon, 20 Sep 2010 08:29:00 EST

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19639529 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/andreaformica_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/andreaformica.jpg <![CDATA[Officially Official: VW of America names Browning as new CEO]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/13/officially-official-vw-of-america-names-browning-as-new-ceo/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/13/officially-official-vw-of-america-names-browning-as-new-ceo/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/09/13/officially-official-vw-of-america-names-browning-as-new-ceo/#commentsFiled under: Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Volkswagen

Jonathan Browning, CEO of Volkswagen of America

Yesterday, we reported that Volkswagen was planning to name Jonathan Browning as its new CEO of United States operations. At 11:00 AM today, VW did just that - Browning will officially assume the role on October 1st of this year.

Browning has held many executive sales and marketing positions within the automotive industry. He was recently tasked with managing the national sales team for all of the Volkswagen Group brands. Now, Browning will be a driving force behind the automakers push to become a leading brand in the United States.

VW Group recently invested $1 billion dollars in a new Chattanooga assembly plant and is also planning a large marketing campaign to rally sales around the redesigned Volkswagen Jetta. The target sales goal for 2018 is 200,000 Audi models and 800,000 Volkswagen models - high goals, indeed.

Congratulations to Mr. Browning and the Volkswagen Group.

[Source: Volkswagen]

Continue reading Officially Official: VW of America names Browning as new CEO

Officially Official: VW of America names Browning as new CEO originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 13 Sep 2010 12:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>browningceochattanoogajonathan browningvolkswagenvolkswagen groupvolkswagen of americavolkswagen of america ceovwvw groupvw group of americaMon, 13 Sep 2010 12:32:00 EST

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19631382 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/jonathan-browning_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/09/jonathan-browning.jpg <![CDATA[Ducati North America seeks new CEO]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/17/officially-official-ducati-north-america-seeks-new-ceo/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/17/officially-official-ducati-north-america-seeks-new-ceo/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/17/officially-official-ducati-north-america-seeks-new-ceo/#commentsFiled under: Performance, Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Earnings/Financials, Motorcycle, Rumormill, Luxury

Amidst recent rumors, Ducati has officially announced that its CEO of North American operations, Michael Lock, will step down at the end of July to pursue other opportunities.

Since Lock took the reins in North America in late 2003, Ducati has bridged the gap from something of a novelty brand to what is perhaps the most feared and admired European motorcycle brand. Ducati owners may still crave an exclusive, somewhat eccentric image, but the brand has become very mainstream in the U.S. and Canada, competing at the top of several segments and boasting a robust dealer network. With waiting lists for new models and a full apparel collection to further pad the bottom line, we don't see the momentum slowing much in years to come. In the interim, Ducati N.A. will be run by VP of Sales for Ducati Holdings, Christiano Silei. As far as a long-term plan, expect to see a new CEO appointed soon.

And what of Michael Lock? Why would the successful executive leave when he's at the top of his game? Well, we suspect "other opportunities" to involve plenty of cash and a new challenge for the former Ducati captain. Who knows, maybe Triumph hired him back? Hit the break to view the official press release.

[Source: Ducati]

Continue reading Ducati North America seeks new CEO

Ducati North America seeks new CEO originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 17 Jul 2010 09:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ceoceo payCeoPayChristiano SileiChristianoSileiducatiDucati MonsterDucati North AmericaDucatiHypermotardDucatiHypermotard796DucatiMonsterDucatiNorthAmericaMichael LockMichaelLockmonster 796Monster796motorcyclemotorcycle racingMotorcycleRacingmotorcyclesmultistrada 1200Multistrada1200tom cruiseTomCruisetriumphtriumph motorcycletriumph motorcyclesTriumphDaytonaTriumphMotorcycleTriumphMotorcyclesvalentino rossiValentinoRossiSat, 17 Jul 2010 09:25:00 EST

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19557989 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/multi-monsters_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/multi-monsters.jpg <![CDATA[Report: Chung, Mullaly, Winterkorn named top car company CEOs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/14/report-mong-koo-mullaly-winterkorn-named-top-car-company-ceos/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/14/report-mong-koo-mullaly-winterkorn-named-top-car-company-ceos/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/07/14/report-mong-koo-mullaly-winterkorn-named-top-car-company-ceos/#commentsFiled under: Ford, Hyundai, Volkswagen

Automotive News has put together its list of 2010 auto industry all-stars, and taking first place in American, European and Asian CEO categories are Ford CEO Alan Mulally, Volkswagen CEO Dr. Martin Winterkorn, and Hyundai-Kia CEO Chung Mong-koo. Hard to fault the choices, and it shouldn't come as a surprise at all that the same three gentlemen took slots two through four of Motor Trend's list of top 50 auto execs for 2009.

Mulally was cited because his "steadfast plan to turn Ford around is bearing fruit in impressive fashion" and Chung was lauded for having " turned the Hyundai brand into a superpower." Winterkorn, who could have been awarded based on VW's Hulk-like growth, was actually noted for his "Strategy 2018," by which time he plans for the VW group to be selling ten million cars per year. Check this spot in eight years to see if he's still an all-star. For now, though, congrats to all.

[Source: Automotive News - sub. req'd.]

Report: Chung, Mullaly, Winterkorn named top car company CEOs originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 14 Jul 2010 17:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>alan mulallyAlanMulallyauto ceoauto executiveauto executivesAutoCeoAutoExecutiveAutoExecutivesawardsceoceosChung Mong-KooChungMong-koomartin winterkornMartinWinterkornmong-koomulallywinterkornWed, 14 Jul 2010 17:32:00 EST

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19553083 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/topautoceos_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/07/topautoceos.jpg <![CDATA[Fiat unites Maserati, Abarth, Alfa Romeo under one CEO]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/27/fiat-unites-maserati-abarth-alfa-romeo-under-one-ceo/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/27/fiat-unites-maserati-abarth-alfa-romeo-under-one-ceo/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/01/27/fiat-unites-maserati-abarth-alfa-romeo-under-one-ceo/#commentsFiled under: Europe, Hirings/Firings/Layoffs, Maserati, Alfa Romeo, Fiat

With the unification of Fiat and Chrysler, we're been expecting major changes in the corporate structure of the two automakers and their various brands. Most recently, Lancia chief executive Olivier Francois was named head of the Chrysler division, leading to reports that the two brands - similarly positioned in the sub-luxury premium segment - will be integrated into one unit. Now similar reports place the Abarth, Maserati and Alfa Romeo brands under common leadership.

Let's get ready to play musical chairs for a moment... This news comes with the appointment of Harald Wester as CEO of Alfa Romeo. In his new role, Wester replaces Sergio Cravero, who himself was recently promoted from the brand's communications directorate to serve as a replacement for the departing Luca de Meo who will change to a new role as head of product planning for the entire Fiat Group.

Wester, meanwhile, retains not only his roles as group chief technical officer, but also as CEO of both the Abarth and Maserati brands. As a result, we can expect to see a deeper level of collaboration between these performance-oriented brands within the expanding Fiat empire. Details in the press release after the jump.

[Source: Fiat]

Continue reading Fiat unites Maserati, Abarth, Alfa Romeo under one CEO

Fiat unites Maserati, Abarth, Alfa Romeo under one CEO originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abarthalfaalfa romeoAlfaRomeoceoChief Executivechief executive officerChiefExecutiveChiefExecutiveOfficerfiatfiat auto groupfiat groupfiat group automobilesFiatAutoGroupFiatGroupFiatGroupAutomobilesharald j westerharald j. westerharald westerHaraldJ.WesterHaraldJWesterHaraldWestermaseratiWed, 27 Jan 2010 08:00:00 EST

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19330078 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/08/harald_wester_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2008/08/harald_wester.jpg -1 2