Pitt Business e-newsletter Issue 14, March 2009
Living a Dream
Karen K. Rafferty (MBA '01), product marketing director for Chevrolet Motor Division of General Motors (GM) Corporation, was named one of The Network Journal's 2009 Twenty Five Influential Black Women in Business. The award is designed to recognize and honor women whose professional achievements have significantly impacted an industry or profession, and who also have made an important contribution to their community. Rafferty is featured in the March issue of The Network Journal and was honored during the magazine's 11th annual awards program in New York City on March 12.
"It is a great privilege to be recognized by The Network Journal and to receive this award for doing a job that I enjoy so much," says Rafferty. "I am fortunate to work for the Chevrolet Motor Division of General Motors in an exciting and challenging career that has allowed me to experience many diverse roles that optimize my talents."
Rafferty, who has worked for GM for 20 years, was appointed director of product marketing for Chevrolet Midsize and Sports Cars in August 2008. Previously, she was the Northeast regional marketing manager in the premium division, leading a team responsible for marketing and advertising of Cadillac, Hummer, and Saab. In 2006 and 2007, Rafferty was the Cadillac brand director for Shanghai General Motors - China, where she led a cross-functional team responsible for marketing Cadillac in China.
"I can't think of a better person to hold the marketing reins of Chevrolet's most dynamic products," said Ed Peper, GM North America vice president, Chevrolet. "Karen's vast business experiences make her a seasoned pro that's needed most at this important time in the history of General Motors and Chevrolet," added Peper.
Under Rafferty's direction, her team is leading the introduction of the the all-new 2010 Chevrolet Camaro, coming to market this spring. She also leads a Corvette team that is on the cutting-edge of enthusiast marketing. In addition, her current assignment has her keeping the momentum going for the award winning Chevrolet Malibu and the Impala.
Rafferty has been very active in racing Chevrolet Corvettes, Camaros, and Pontiac Firebirds since 1987 and has won four U.S. National titles in the Sports Car Club of America Solo II competition and nine trophy positions.
