GM has named Tony Cervone, 51, senior vice president of GM global communications. He will report to CEO Mary Barra. Cervone rejoins GM from Volkswagen where he was executive vice president of group communications for Volkswagen Group of America.
Cervone succeeds Selim Bingol who left GM in April “to pursue other interests.” Ed Akerson, the former Chairman and CEO of General Motors, brought Bingol – a p.r. operative and lobbyist for ATT – into GM when he took over GM as CEO in July of 2009 as GM emerged from bankruptcy. The then GM CEO and lifer, Fritz Henderson, was forced to resign by the Federal Government, which – with lavish taxpayer subsidies – financed the GM reorganization after a well deserved bankruptcy
Cervone has overall responsibility for GM’s global communications, including global products and brands, corporate, social media, executive support, and internal communications.
“It’s a great time to rejoin GM,” Cervone says. “A re-energized leadership team, the best products in its history, a renewed commitment to individual customer experiences, and a compelling drive for cultural change all combine to make this a key moment in this great company’s history. I’m proud to be a part of both the leadership and Communications teams.”
Cervone has held top communications positions in the automotive and aviation industries. Prior to Volkswagen, he was senior vice president for communications for United Airlines and was a key part of the team that oversaw the carrier’s merger with Continental Airlines.
“Tony brings an ideal mix of outside perspective and experience that complements a deep background in GM and today’s global auto industry,” says GM CEO Mary Barra, who is under attack for her leadership role during the GM ignition switch cover-up. “I’ve worked with Tony in the past and he has my trust and respect. I know he’ll be another catalyst for change on our leadership team.”
Skeptic’s claim that GM has not changed at all. What has demonstrably changed is The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – called the “lap dog” of the auto industry during Congressional hearings over NHTSA’s failure to act on the Toyota Ignition Switch cover-up.
He joined United from GM where he served as vice president of global communications strategy and operations. His 10-year career at GM also included leading GM’s international communications operations in Europe. Cervone originally joined GM from Chrysler Group where he was vice president for communications and held various communications positions during a 14-year career at the Auburn Hills, Mich.-based automaker.
