• Automotive News, Thursday, September 23, 2010 8:32 AM

Hans Greimel reports that Nissan aims to strengthen its global branding efforts by creating a Global Marketing Communications division that combines product planning, marketing, advertising and public relations.

An inside source tells Greimel that the company wants to break down silos between departments and promote cross-communication. The goal is to create a clearer and more consistent brand image.

Andy Palmer, currently svp in charge of global planning and program management, will oversee the division; Simon Sproule, who now heads global communications for the Renault-Nissan alliance in Paris, will lead the new unit and report to Palmer. Design chief Shiro Nakamura, meanwhile, will also become "Brands Champion" and report directly to Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn.

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