According to his biography on GM's website, Akerson is managing director and has been head of global buyouts at the Carlyle Group since 2009.

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Dan Akerson, GM's new chief executive, says the company is committed to electrification and has other electric cars under development.

ECONOMIST: Electric cars

"Mary represents what's right about GM, " Akerson says.

FORBES: Magazine Article

"She's doing wonderfully, " replies Akerson.

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During a conference call touting the automaker's solid second-quarter earnings, GM announced that Akerson, a board member since 2009, will become CEO.

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Mr. Akerson said GM has a stronger position in the U.S. market after trimming operations in bankruptcy court.

WSJ: GM Reports $2 Billion Quarterly Profit

Now she's working to accelerate the introduction of vehicles like the next Chevrolet Malibu, which Akerson pushed (see list, bottom).

FORBES: Magazine Article

Then in July 2009, Daniel Akerson was named to the GM board on behalf of the U.S. Treasury, which at the time owned a 61% stake in the company.

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