GENERAL Motors Europe has appointed Timothy Lee as vice-president of manufacturing. He is now responsible for the overall co-ordination of all Opel, Vauxhall and Saab vehicle manufacturing and assembly plants in Europe.

Lee joined GM in 1969 and throughout his career has held a number of senior management positions in manufacturing.

In his new role, he succeeds James Wiemels who after a brief transition period returns to the United States.

Commenting on the moves, General Motors Europe president Michael Burns said: 'Jim Wiemels has been instrumental in streamlining and transforming our production facilities across Europe so that we now operate with flexible facilities that can adapt quickly to market needs at world class levels of quality and efficiency.

'Tim Lee's industry experience and his track record will be great assets in our efforts to further build on the solid foundation Jim and his team have created.'