Paul Jacobson
Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
2020 – Present
6 years (current)
Key Decisions & Impact
Recruited from Delta Air Lines at the height of the global pandemic, Paul Jacobson immediately faced the unprecedented logistical nightmare of the global semiconductor shortage, which crippled automotive production worldwide. He implemented rigorous capital discipline, prioritizing the allocation of scarce microchips to GM's most profitable, high-margin vehicles—specifically full-size pickup trucks and luxury SUVs. Furthermore he is the primary architect of the financial modeling required to fund the company's multi-billion dollar transition to electric vehicles without bankrupting the legacy internal combustion engine business.
Legacy
Jacobson's strict financial stewardship has been crucial in maintaining GM's profitability during a period of industry disruption and unprecedented capital expenditure. His ability to balance the enormous cash requirements of EV development with the necessity of maintaining a strong investment-grade balance sheet has provided CEO Mary Barra with the financial security necessary to execute her long-term strategic vision.