General Motors Co. Appoints Grant Dixton as New Chief Legal and Public Policy Officer

General Motors Co. has made a significant change in its leadership team by appointing Grant Dixton as its new chief legal and public policy officer, effective July 15. Dixton will be taking over from Craig Glidden, who has been leading the company’s legal, policy, and cybersecurity teams.

Dixton, who previously served as the top lawyer at Activision Blizzard Inc., brings a wealth of experience in managing complex business transactions and regulatory issues in the transportation, manufacturing, and technology sectors. His expertise in governance, litigation, intellectual property, and labor matters will be crucial in his new role at GM.

On the other hand, Glidden will be transitioning to focus on his position as president and chief administrative officer at Cruise, GM’s San Francisco-based subsidiary. This move comes after Cruise grounded its fleet of vehicles and dismissed nine executives, including former legal chief Jeffrey Bleich, following an accident involving one of its robotaxis last year.

Mary Barra, GM’s chief executive, expressed confidence in Dixton’s abilities, highlighting his track record as a respected leader and legal expert. Dixton’s previous roles at Boeing Co., Kirkland & Ellis, and in the White House during the George W. Bush administration have prepared him well for this new challenge at GM.

Glidden, who took over as GM’s legal chief in 2015, will continue to serve as a strategic adviser to the company while overseeing legal, government affairs, finance, human resources, and communications at Cruise. His contributions to GM have been significant, and he received a $2 million equity award for his additional duties at Cruise during fiscal 2023.

Dixton’s departure package from Activision was estimated to be around $14 million, showcasing the value he brings to organizations. With these leadership changes, GM is positioning itself for continued success in the ever-evolving automotive industry.