TORONTO - Chrysler Group LLC announced a number of management changes Tuesday, including putting the head of its Canadian operations in charge of U.S. sales and creating the new post of chief operating officer for Canada.
Reid Bigland will take on his new U.S. duties, which also include CEO of the Dodge car brand, while retaining his position as president and CEO of Chrysler Canada, the company said in a release.
David Buckingham, currently vice-president for sales at Chrysler Canada, will become COO of Canadian operations, reporting to Bigland.
Meanwhile, Fred Diaz was appointed president and CEO of Chrysler de Mexico, which includes responsibility for Latin America. Diaz continues in his current role as the president and CEO of the Ram truck brand.
Other appointments include the naming of Ralph Gilles as president and CEO of the newly formed street and racing technology brand, Chrysler Group's cross-brand performance unit, and the company's motorsports activities. He continues with design responsibility for all exterior and interior design activities for all Dodge, Ram, Chrysler and Jeep brand vehicles.
Joe ChamaSrour was reassigned to international operations reporting to Mike Manley, president and CEO of the Jeep brand and head of international operations, Chrysler Group.
Auburn Hills, Mich.,-based Chrysler Group, formed in 2009 from a global strategic alliance with Fiat S.p.A., produces Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram, Mopar and Fiat vehicles and products.
