GM's US Marketing VP Gets Promoted

General Motors announced on Friday that Joel Ewanick has been appointed Global Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). Ewanick had joined GM at the end of May 2010, taking the role of vice president of U.S. marketing. Before that, the executive had been working at Nissan North America and Hyundai and was named Forbes' CMO of the Year in 2009, Automotive News’ 2009 Marketing All Star of the Year and Brandweek’s 2009 Marketer of the Year.

"As we continue our rapid growth in major global markets, it is important that we take a more customer-focused view of our overall marketing strategy,” said Dan Akerson, Chief Executive Officer. “In a short period of time, with his marketing acumen and creative leadership, Joel has proven to be a vocal advocate for the customer. He is the right leader to take GM’s marketing strategy to the next level."

Ewanick will now be responsible for GM’s brands globally, working in close collaboration with the regional presidents. As the global marketing executive, he will ensure consistent global messaging for all brands including Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, Holden, Opel and Vauxhall. He will supervise global brand enhancements in the markets in which they are sold and work in association with the regional presidents in countries where GM has partnerships and joint ventures. Auto shows and GM’s corporate and brand marketing participation with major global events will also be part of his new duties.

Ewanick, 50, will report to Dan Akerson as Global CMO and continue to report to Mark Reuss, president, GM North America in his current U.S. marketing role.