Cadillac General Manager Resigns

[Rich S]

Cadillac chief Mark McNabb resigns after 13 months at GM

AUTOMOTIVE NEWS
MAY 21, 2009 - 10:48 AM ET

DETROIT -- Mark McNabb, head of General Motors' Cadillac brand, has resigned, a spokesman said.

McNabb, a former Nissan executive hire by GM 13 months ago, will leave on June 1 to pursue other opportunities, said Klaus-Peter Martin, a Cadillac spokesman. In the interim, Stephen J. Hill, will serve as Cadillac's chief.

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I wonder how this news will affect future products, and whether any other GM Division General Managers will resign?

[Don Boshara #594]

"To pursue other opportunities" often indicates it wasn't his choice.

[Otto Skorzeny]

You're right about that phrase usually indicating a forced departure. In this case I wouldn't be surprised if he resigned on his own.

Who in his right mind wants to work for a company that will soon be beholden to the Imperial Federal Government and our Dear Leader?

[Brian Laurance]

One of the sad changes we've observed over the years is that the "brand" general managers come and go at a steady pace.

What a contrast to the happier days at General Motors, when the divisions were led by strong general managers who left a lasting imprint on their organizations.  Think of people like Pontiac's legendary Bunkie Knudsen or Buick's remarkable Harlowe Curtice -- people who understood the automobile industry inside and out.  These people remained in their leadership roles for a sufficient period of time to produce meaningful results.  By the sheer force of their personalities, they were a transforming influence in their Divisions, and the cars that resulted were significant factors in the marketplace.

Cadillac Division had similarly memorable general managers, but how can we expect a return to greatness when there's a revolving door in the leadership positions?  I would love nothing more than to see passionate car people in these leadership roles.  These would be folks who "get" the significance of Cadillac and are committed for the long-haul.

[The Tassie Devil(le)]

The trouble with Industry these days is that everyone in the top jobs, apart from a few, are wholly intent on totally satisfying the Shareholders, lining their own pockets, and forgetting what the Customer actually wants.

Just look at what the Banks are charging in Fees.   The Customer wants lower fees, but these Banks are still making obscene profits, and the Customers are complaining.

Bruce.

[35-709]

"The trouble with Industry these days is that everyone in the top jobs, apart from a few, are wholly intent on totally satisfying the Shareholders, lining their own pockets, and forgetting what the Customer actually wants."

You nailed it, Bruce.  Add to that none of them are real automobile people the likes of those mentioned by Brian Laurance.
Geoff

[Jim Salmi #21340]

Don't know anything about Mr. McNabb, but if he's only been there 13 months, it probably won't make any difference one way or the other.  Most of these corporate professional managers don't have any real passion for their company's products.  You have the feeling they would be as happy at Proctor and Gamble selling soap as they are at GM selling cars.  Soon, there won't be any "car guys" at the manufacturers.  They will be at home in their garages puttering with the old stuff, and remembering how things used to be.  I have the sinking feeling that it is just too late for this company and industry.  If you were a talented young engineering student today, would you hitch your wagon to this industry?  I don't think I would.

[Jim Thompson]

I wonder if Obama ordered him to leave too................

[Tom Hall 7485]

Too much gloom and doom here.  The car industry is still interesting and young people
with talent are still trying to get into it, fortunately.   (Iif American banks were making
obscene profits, their share prices would reflect it these days.)

The general manager's position at Cadillac Division has typically been filled by someone
who has made his career at GM at least, if not at Cadillac Division itself.  The average duration
in that position is less than ten years.

Other than possibly Mr. McNabb, did anyone come into the Cadillac general manager's
position directly from outside of GM?   

[RobW]

Who in his right mind wants to work for a company that will soon be beholden to the Imperial Federal Government and our Dear Leader?

Hmmm.....wonder if you'll have to take a civil service exam to get a job?

[Rich S]

Jeff, I'm afraid there is alot of truth to that informative ariticle! Thanks for posting the link--and everyone keep buying American products! 

[Otto Skorzeny]

American products? Name one.