Vice President of General Motors Global Design, Ed Welburn will retire effective July 1 after a 44-year career with the company.

Michael Simcoe, a 33-year veteran of GM Design and vice president of GM International Design, has been selected to succeed Welburn making him the company’s seventh design leader.

 “GM Design is among the most respected and sought-after organizations in the industry because of Ed’s leadership. He nurtured a creative, inclusive and customer-focused culture among our designers that has strengthened our global brands,” said Mary Barra, GM chairman and CEO.

Under the leadership of Ed Welburn, GM built a network of 10 GM design centers in seven countries. His team of more than 2,500 creative men and women based in the U.S., Germany, South Korea, China, Australia, Brazil, and India collaborate on the design development of every GM concept and production car, truck and crossover globally.

 “Ed’s team turns out one award-winning product after another … and his strong bench will keep GM Design on top for years to come,” Reuss said.

Notable designs include:

Buick Avista Concept (2016)

 

Buick Avenir Concept (2015)

 

Cadillac Elmiraj Concept (2013)

 

Corvette Stingray (C7) (2013)

 

Buick Regal GS (2010)

 

Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept (2008)

 

Buick Enclave Concept (2007)

 

 Cadillac Escalade, Gen 2 (2002)

 

Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme (1975)

 

Buick Riviera and Park Avenue (1973)