WASHINGTON, D.C. – The board of directors of the Association of Global Automakers (Global Automakers) has selected John Bozzella as next president and CEO, effective April 1. Bozzella joins the association from Cerberus Operations and Advisory Co. LLC, and brings with him nearly 20 years experience as a public policy executive with Chrysler and Ford Motor Co. 
“John’s proven leadership and extensive experience with automotive public policy issues make him a natural choice to take the helm at Global Automakers,” said Jim Lentz, CEO of Toyota North America and chairman of the board of directors of Global Automakers. “We are confident he will successfully advance our members’ efforts to foster an open and competitive automotive marketplace that encourages investment, job growth and innovation.”
Prior to his time at Cerberus, Bozzella spent five years at Chrysler and DaimlerChrysler leaving as senior vice president of external affairs and public policy in 2009. He is credited for playing a major role mobilizing government support for the significant restructuring of Chrysler. Bozzella also spent 10 years at Ford Motor Co. in positions in government and community relations from 1994 to 2005.
“I am honored to have been chosen to lead this exceptional organization,” said Bozzella. “Global Automakers has evolved in its 50-year history to reflect the growth of international automakers that now provide mobility to millions of Americans through trusted brands and hundreds of thousands of great jobs across our nation. For a car guy like me, it’s great to come back and to do my part to support a vibrant, innovative and competitive U.S. auto industry.”
Outgoing President and CEO Michael Stanton announced his plans to retire early last year to provide the association with enough time to ensure a successful and seamless transition of leadership. “It is bittersweet to walk away from my 35-year career in the auto industry, capped by the last eight years at Global Automakers,” said Stanton. “The board of directors made a great decision to hire John and I am confident the association is in good hands.”
