“He brings an extensive background assessing and executing M&A, evaluating and managing minority investments, evaluating unique supply chain situations, as well as leading special projects,” Jacobson wrote, noting that Kirkman’s first car was a 1969 Buick Wildcat convertible that he and his father restored.
Kirkman’s hiring comes three months after GM added former Tesla sales chief Jon McNeill to its board.
Ford Motor Co. also recently pulled executive talent from Tesla and Apple with the hiring of Alan Clarke and Doug Field.
GM is in the midst of an effort begun a year ago to hire more than 8,000 people to work in EV, software, autonomous technology and fuel cell development. The automaker has committed $35 billion to AVs and EVs through 2025 and is targeting a zero-emission light-vehicle lineup by 2035.
