• June 30, 2009

Chrysler Group is making changes to its communication staff structure. The automaker, which recently emerged from bankruptcy protection, will create a dedicated communications organization for Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Mopar brands.

Rick S. Deneau will be brand lead and head of Chrysler brand communications, working with Peter Fong, president and CEO-Chrysler brand and sales. Deneau will also handle brand and commercial organizations. Todd R. Goyer is head of Jeep brand and product planning ommunication, working with Michael Manley, president and CEO Jeep Brand and Product Planning. David T. Elshoff will handle Dodge brand and marketing communications, working beside Michael Accavitti, president and CEO-Dodge brand and marketing. And Bryan J. Zvibleman will lead Mopar service, parts and customer care brand communications, working with Pietro Gorlier, president and CEO of Mopar.

As new head of internal branding, Laurie McTavish will lead communications strategy for all internal stakeholders and retirees. Shawn Morgan will be head of corporate communications.

Ariel Gavilan is appointed head of markets communications for Canada, Mexico, Latin America and all other International locations. Reporting to Gavilan are Mary E. Gauthier, lead for Chrysler Canada Communications; and Manuel Duarte, lead for Chrysler de Mexico Communications.

Carrie McElwee is now head of event, service and electronic-media communications. McElwee will lead all press, product and special events and services including Web, electronic and social media.--Karl Greenberg