Management Structure

The principle purpose of the Public Policy Committee of the GM Board of Directors is to foster GM’s commitment to operate our business worldwide in a manner consistent with the rapidly changing demands of society.  The Committee shall discuss, and bring to the attention of the Board as appropriate, current and emerging political, social, and public policy issues that may affect the business operations, performance, or public image of the company.  Matters reviewed by the Committee include, but are not limited to: research and development, automotive safety, environmental matters, government relations, diversity, corporate social responsibility, education, communications, employee health and safety, trade, and philanthropic activities.

GM's Public Policy Center (PPC) identifies, coordinates, and manages key issues that affect our business in the areas of corporate responsibility and sustainability, government relations, energy and environment, economics, diversity, philanthropy, and community relations.  The objective of the PPC is to advance GM's position on issues of public policy.  To help achieve this vision, the mission of the PPC is to:

• Anticipate external trends and changes that could affect GM's business decisions
• Support corporate business and cultural objectives
• Develop and execute coordinated public policy strategies
• Ensure that GM's strategic plans and operating practices take into account the changing public policy environment.

A Public Policy Global Coordination Team directs the PPC and comprises members from GM's four operating business regions and the respective regional strategy boards.  This management structure provides the Global Coordination Team with a direct link to the strategy and business decisions taken by the Automotive Strategy Board and the regional strategy boards.  PPC leadership is provided by its Vice President of Environment and Energy, Vice President of Corporate Responsibility and Diversity, Vice President of Government Relations, and Chief Economist.  These individuals make up the leadership of the Public Policy Global Coordination Team.  The activities of the PPC are reported annually using this Corporate Responsibility Report and through the GMability web site (launched in 2001).  The management approaches adopted for specific environmental, social, and community issues are discussed in the respective sections of this report.