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General Motors Announces a Pair of Executive Promotions

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John P. Roth will be the new president and managing director of GM Africa and Middle East operations

Two recent personnel moves will bring new leaders to General Motors’ efforts in North America and around the world.

John P. Roth will be the new president and managing director of GM Africa and Middle East operations. Roth has worked for GM since 1991. He is currently the vice president of GM Canada Marketing, Sales, and Service. Starting June 1, he will be based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, where he will be in charge of helping Chevrolet, GMC, Cadillac, and ACDelco expand their regional growth.

“Under John’s leadership, the marketing, sales, and service team in Canada delivered industry-leading results in 2017—a tremendous feat in a competitive market,” said GM executive vice president Alan Batey. “John’s success in Canada and his deep understanding of the GM brands make him an excellent choice to lead the team in Africa and the Middle East.”


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Roth is replacing Mario A. Spangenberg in the position. Spangenberg will retire in July after 15 years with GM and 38 total years in the automotive industry.

“Mario has been a key contributer to GM’s global success, and is leaving behind a solid foundation in Africa and the Middle East for the team to build on,” said Batey.

Scott Bell will be the new vice president of GM Canada Marketing, Sales, and Service
Photo: John F. Martin for General Motors

Scott Bell will replace Roth as the vice president of GM Canada Marketing, Sales, and Service. Bell has worked for GM since 1989. He is currently the U.S. director of Sales Operations for Chevrolet. In his new position, he will head up marketing, sales, and service for all four GM auto brands.

“Scott has demonstrated a tremendous ability to execute a disciplined business strategy through extensive collaboration with the dealer body, leading to profitable growth,” said Steve Carlisle, president and managing director of GM Canada. “These are key skills that will help GM Canada build on today’s success well into the future.”


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