Sumit Sawhney promoted as VP, marketing, GM

General Motors India has promoted Sumit Sawhney, director, sales as vice-president, marketing, sales and after sales, with effect from August 1. He replaces Ankush Arora, who has been transferred to General Motors Daewoo Auto and Technology (GMDAT) Korea as vice-president, sales, service and marketing, following a global move.

Sawhney will be based in Gurgaon and will report to Karl Slym, president and managing director, GM India. In the new role, he will be responsible for vehicle sales, servicing and marketing functions for GM's passenger cars in the Indian sub-continent.

He will play a role in developing the brand in India, continue to generate volumes and ensure post sales service and customer support.

Sawhney will also work towards strengthening the regional operations and reinforcing and expanding the dealer network in the country. Currently, GM India has about 206 sales points and 207 service outlets, which the company plans to expand to 300 sales points and service outlets by the end of the year.

Sawhney has more than 15 years of experience, of which he has spent about 10 years at GM India, contributing towards the growth of car sales, network and business development, regional sales and service operations. Prior to GM, he has worked with Fiat.

During his tenure, Arora played a key role in establishing Chevrolet as a brand in India and did a remarkable job in introducing a number of innovative marketing strategies to increase sales and dealer footprint.

Arora will be based in Seoul, Korea and will report to the president of GMDAT. He replaces Rick LaBelle, vice-president, sales, servicing and marketing, GM, who is returning to the US following his five year assignment in Korea.