DETROIT — Late Wednesday, Fritz Henderson, General Motors president and chief executive officer, named Mark LaNeve's replacement. Promoted to the position is Susan Docherty, who is currently the general manager of Buick-GMC.

She takes over the role on Oct. 16 and will also become a member of the executive committee.

"Susan will bring a wealth of experience from previous marketing and sales assignments," Henderson pointed out. "I have confidence that she will bring a new perspective to the position as she guides a new, lead and customer-focused dealer network."

Docherty had been named to lead the Buick-Pontiac-GMC channel in June 2008. Prior to this position, she served as general manager for the Western region, taking over that position in September 2006.

She was named head of the Hummer Division in September 2004.

Earlier responsibilities include marketing director and brand manager for Cadillac Escalade, sales and service executive positions for GM Europe, and managerial positions with GM of Canada.

"I'd like to congratulate Susan in her new assignment and once again thank Mark for guiding our sales and dealer organizations through one of the most difficult periods in the industry's history," Henderson added.

"Susan will continue our progress and reinforce our focus to put the Chevy, Buick, GMC and Cadillac customers first," he continued.

As for the Buick-GMC GM position, the automaker said it will look outside to fill this.

"This will infuse new ideas and an outside perspective into our marketing efforts," Henderson concluded.