Former GM Exec Bo Andersson to Lead Yazaki Europe
July 24, 2017

Article written by Michael Wayland of Automotive News July 24, 2017 

Bo Andersson has returned to the automotive industry to lead European operations for Japanese auto supplier Yazaki.

The long time purchasing executive for General Motors was elected president of Yazaki Europe, the company said in a statement. The appointment was effective July 14.

Andersson, 61, succeeded Horst Randolph. Yazaki, the world's biggest maker of wire harness systems, did not specify whether Randolph remains with the company.

A spokesperson for Yazaki was not immediately available to comment.

Andersson, a former Swedish army major, started his career with Saab Automotive AB in 1987, followed by a 16-year career at GM. He held several positions at the automaker, including vice president of global purchasing and supply chain from 2001 to 2009. He was seen as instrumental in cutting $2 billion annually from GM's parts bill.

About a month after leaving GM, he was elected chairman of GAZ Group. In short order, he added president to his title, and in 2013, he was appointed to lead AvtoVAZ, the largest Russian car manufacturer.

Russia proved to be a challenge for the hard-nosed executive, who was ousted as CEO after being blamed for nearly $1 billion in losses in 2015.

Andersson,who has been working as a consultant, told Automotive News last year that he could envision himself returning to the automotive industry.

"The global auto industry is where I belong," he said "I had a lot of good experience in North America. I worked in Europe. And I would be interested in Asia. I am wide open."