General Motors has announced that Stefan Jacoby, the former CEO of Volvo Car Co, will be its new executive vice-president of international operations, with responsibility for GM activities in Asia, Africa, Europe and the Middle East.

Stefan Jacoby [File photo / cnautonews.com]?

Jacoby, who stepped down as Volvo's CEO last year after a mild stroke, will start work on Aug 5. He replaces Tim Lee, who was named chairman of GM China.

"Stefan is a great addition to an already strong team," said GM CEO Dan Akerson in a written statement. "We expect him to continue building on his record of delivering results in markets around the world."

As the former chief of Volkswagen China, Jacoby has considerable knowledge of that key market.

In China, Lee will oversee the company's 12 joint ventures and 55,000 employees. Lee also will retain his job as executive vice-president of global manufacturing. Bob Socia, president of GM China, will continue to report to Lee.