CEO and Chairman of General Motors
CEO and Chairman of General MotorsCEO and Chairman of General Motors Since becoming the CEO and chairman of General Motors in 2003, Rick Wagoner has helped to steer the world’s largest automaker through turbulent times. During the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, Wagoner discussed GM’s vision for the future.
“This year’s auto show is very important,” Wagoner says. “I think that our visitors from around the world will come away with a great impression of our cars.”
GM has added groundbreaking technology and improved fuel efficiency for all of its new vehicles. “It’s important for us to put forth a good demonstration of our products and technology capabilities,” says Wagoner. “We announced … the ability to grow ethanol as a fuel source.”
Wagoner also expounded on GM’s dedication to the hiring of women and minorities. “For 50 years, GM has been committed to making sure that everyone has a chance to enter our workforce and to succeed. We have a few examples of great leaders who have joined us like Ed Welburn, who is the head of global design. We also have Kevin Williams, who is over GM in Mexico,” he says.
“The Rev. Jesse Jackson once said, ‘We never knew how good baseball could be until Jackie Robinson joined the MLB.’ That same idea has applied in the business community. We’re dedicated to helping all individuals achieve their goals. It’s been rewarding for GM and we plan to continue on that path,” he says. – amir shaw
