* OCTOBER 5, 2009, 9:33 A.M. ET
Chrysler Shakes Up Executive Positions
The heads of Chrysler Group LLC's Dodge and Chrysler brands resigned, the latest shake-up as the auto maker continues to retool.
Olivier Francois will become president and chief executive of the Chrysler brand. Mr. Francois is a Fiat SpA veteran, most recently heading up the Lancia brand, which he will continue to run. He also will be lead executive for the company's global marketing organization. Michael Manley will stay on as president and CEO of the Jeep brand.
Peter Fong, head of the Chrysler brand resigned for personal reasons, while Dodge chief Michael Accavitti left to pursue other interests, the company said.
Fred Diaz Jr. will serve as president and chief executive for Dodge RAM trucks, while Ralph Gilles will take on those roles for Dodge cars. Mr. Diaz, who has been with the company since 1989, most recently was director of the company's Denver business center. Mr. Gilles will continue to lead Chrysler's product-design organization.
Fiat has been working on a restructuring plan for Chrysler, which is expected to be presented to the U.S. auto task force this month. Chrysler Group CEO Sergio Marchionne has been overseeing a restructuring of the U.S. auto maker since Fiat bought a 20% stake this year.
LINK:
Chrysler Shakes Up Executive Positions - WSJ.com
