Robert Lutz, the charismatic and sometimes controversial Vice Chairman of General Motors, has reportedly reversed his decision to retire later this year. The announcement is expected to come as a part of GM’s hour-long press conference scheduled for Friday morning, during which the company will also announce its emergence from bankruptcy.
Lutz, 77, might take on a new position at the automaker, according to the Wall Street Journal. He is often credited with GM’s recent ‘product renaissance,’ but his new role might focus on his other forte — marketing. Lutz could be appointed to director of communications, sources say.
Lutz was previously set to retire by the end of 2009. His departure was announced in February, a time when GM’s fate was uncertain at best. Despite the company’s woes, the announcement was surprising given Lutz’ previous statements.
In December — three months before the retirement announcement — Lutz expressed a desire to continue working. In an interview with CNN he stated: “I will be 77 years old. I really don’t need to work. I enjoy working. I feel a sense of mission. And if I felt this was hopeless, believe me I would be walking. I’d be sitting in some vacation home some place.”
Apparently, the former Marine’s ‘sense of mission’ got the best of him, resulting in his decision to stay on board with the company.
