WARREN, Mich. – GM Design today announced several changes to its global leadership team designed to increase the emphasis on the company's vehicle brands, including Opel and Buick. The new Global Design structure will further enhance the focus on joint strategies, theme development and innovation. "I am confident that this alignment will continue to unite our global team around its passion for designing vehicles that make an emotional connection with customers – and our mission that every new product we develop has to be a great vehicle," said Ed Welburn, vice president, Global Design. The changes take effect Sept. 1. The GM Design employees receiving new assignments are: Mark Adams, currently executive director, Global Cadillac and Buick Design and GME vice president, Design, will return to Germany and assume the position of GME vice president, Design, and champion for Opel/Buick brand strategies and design language. Andrew Smith, currently design director, Holden Design