Canadian takes high-ranking role at GM

General Motors has announced Susan Docherty as the new vice president of international operations sales, marketing and aftersales.

Docherty, a Windsor, Ont., native will be reporting to Tim Lee, president, GM International Operations affective June 1.

“Growth in China and other emerging markets is important to the company’s future,” said Ed Whitacre GM chairman and CEO.  “We are counting on Susan to make a significant contribution and I am glad to have her running this critical part of our business.”

Docherty, 47, will be coordinating sales, marketing and aftersales in GM’s Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, Russia and Commonwealth of Independent States operations. Docherty will be in charge of market performance, having to improve the opinion and consideration of GM’s vehicles (Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Holdren and Cadillac) to “drive consumer demand for GM vehicles”.

Docherty replaces Don Johnson, 53, whose new position at GM “will be announced soon.”

Her new role is not a stretch from her previous position as vice president of U.S. marketing.

“Susan has given her all to GM for many years,” said GM president North America, Mark Reuss.  “She has set the foundations for our future in North America and takes significant domestic and international experience and expertise to her new position.  We wish her every success.”

The automaker says Docherty has extensive sales, service and marketing experience, having held positions with responsibility for Canada, the U.S., and abroad. Most notable is her brand work, including the launch of the 2010 Buick LaCrosse and GMC Terrain.