GM Creates Global Product Integrity Team in Wake of Ignition-Switch Recall

April 16, 2014

Patrick Ponticel

In the wake of its ignition switch recall, General Motors CEO Mary Barra has announced creation of a Global Product Integrity organization. Housed within the Global Production Development group, it will "build on the formula and specific actions we have taken in recent years to lead the industry in vehicle dynamics," Barra said at the 2014 New York International Auto Show. "We will mirror this approach to focus on safety performance." The new organization will report to Mark Reuss, Executive Vice President, Global Product Development, Purchasing, and Supply Chain (a position held by Barra before her elevation to CEO). Jeff Boyer, recently named to the new position of Vice President, Global Vehicle Safety, is part of the organization. As part of her remarks at the auto show, Barra pointed to several moves GM made last week regarding the ignition switch recall matter:

Announced that it will replace ignition lock cylinders in the 2.6 million vehicles already recalled to repair ignition switches.
Placed two engineers involved in the recall situation on paid suspension, as an “interim step” in its investigation of the ignition-switch problems that persisted for years.
Announced that it is accelerating the certification of engineers as Design for Six Sigma black belts. To date, about 15,000 GM engineers have been certified, and all will be certified by the end of 2015.
Announced a “Speak Up for Safety” program to recognize employees for ideas that make vehicles and customers safer.
Began delivery of ignition switch replacement parts to dealers.