General Motors has appointed an Australian, Jess Bala, as its new managing director of GM Australia and New Zealand, effective September 1, 2023.
It says Bala brings knowledge of global vehicle product strategy, having most recently served as Cadillac Director of global product lanning and Product Strategy. She played a central role in Cadillac’s transition to an all-EV brand by the end of the decade.
As managing director Bala will lead operations across both countries including, GM Specialty Vehicles
Isuzu New Zealand, customer care and aftersales including Holden aftersales and Chevrolet Racing.
“Jess is a experienced GM professional who has more than 15 years leading and implementing winning product strategies, including the introduction, and positioning of electric vehicles in both retail and commercial markets,” said Ernesto Ortiz, President and Managing Director of GM’s Strategic Markets, Alliances and Distributors.
Most recently, Bala launched the XT4 MCM and the highly popular Escalade V, as well as key electric vehicle launches, including the Cadillac LYRIQ in North America and China, while also developing plans to introduce Ultra Cruise in future Cadillac vehicles.
Having begun her career with GM in Australia, Bala also understands the industry in Australia and New Zealand.
“Australia and New Zealand are critical markets in GM’s international strategy and Jess’ appointment comes at an important time in the operation, with further opportunity and transformation for the business on the horizon,” Ortiz says.
Bala will succeed Marc Ebolo, who is moving to a new role in GM – as Director of Sales for GM Middle East, based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
“I want to thank Marc for his leadership. His expertise enabled GM to set up a highly successful business in Australia and New Zealand, overseeing several operations including the Holden aftersales operation, Isuzu Trucks in New Zealand, launching Chevrolet Racing, and GM Specialty Vehicles, which delivers vehicles to customers that want to live big and make a powerful statement,” Ortiz says.
Bala says that she will continue to focus on customers, partnerships, and employees, while also looking to the opportunities that are available in the short and long term.
“Across Australia and New Zealand, we will remain focused on putting the customers first by bringing winning products and a world-class ownership experience,” Bala says.
“GM Australia and New Zealand has a strong foundation for future growth, deploying new technologies, and building new partnerships to surprise and delight our customers.”
Ebolo says he was proud to have led the GM team through the establishment of GM Australia and New Zealand, including producing continuity of service for longterm customers, as well as launching Chevrolet Racing and GM Specialty Vehicles, with the Silverado and the Corvette.
“I am honoured to welcome Jess, a native of Australia, back home. It gives me great pride to be able to say that I have worked with so many talented and hardworking colleagues in the past three years. This team has built a successful specialty business from the ground up while also managing several other moving parts in the operation. There are great opportunities ahead and it is time to welcome a new leader who will usher in the next phase of the business,” Ebolo says.
“I am confident that under Jess’ leadership, the team and business will thrive.”
