From BMWUSA PR:
Tom Purves, Chairman and CEO of BMW (U.S.) Holding Corp., announced executive management changes today as part of the company’s ongoing policy to broaden the experience and portfolios of successful executives.
Effective May 1, 2005, two executives are changing positions to further expand their professional experience and business portfolios. James L. McDowell, Vice President – Marketing for BMW, will become Vice President – MINI. Jack Pitney, currently Vice President – MINI, will become Vice President – Marketing for BMW. Both positions will take effect April 1, 2005.
McDowell joined BMW NA in 1993 and has two decades of experience in the automotive industry. He has received numerous accolades for his innovative marketing programs and leadership, including recognition for the introduction of the internet-based film series, The Hire. McDowell was named Brandweek’s Marketer of the Year twice, Advertising Club’s 2003 Silver Medal Advertising Man of the Year, and Automotive News’ Marketer of the Year in 2002.
Pitney joined BMW NA in 1995 and also has more than two decades of experience in the automotive industry. Pitney, who has an extensive background in public relations, began his career at BMW NA as corporate communications manager. In January 2001, Pitney was appointed general manager, MINI. MINI was launched in the U.S. in 2002, and has sales of over 104,000 MINIs to date.
“We place the highest value on our human resources and these new assignments are designed to recognize the performance of successful executives by giving them varied and expanded responsibilities in line with their respective career goals,” explained Purves.
“BMW of North America has just come off a record year. We’re excited about the launch of the 3 Series and the sustained interest in MINI,” Purves continued. “This move will help us maintain that momentum.”
