DETROIT - General Motors Co said on Thursday that Brian K. Sweeney would be the new general manager of its Buick and GMC brands after his predecessor lasted nine days on the job.

Sweeney had been acting brand chief for Buick and GMC since last week, when Michael Richards resigned after taking the position on Dec. 1, the same day former GM chief executive Fritz Henderson was ousted by GM's board.

GM said last week that Richards, 52, had resigned to pursue other career opportunities.

Sweeney, 42, has been with GM since 1990 and has held sales and marketing positions in New York, Chicago, Atlanta and Detroit, GM said in a statement on Thursday.

Susan Docherty, GM vice president for sales, service and marketing, said Sweeney has played an important role at Buick and GMC.

He consolidated 13 different agencies to one dedicated partner to drive a consistent brand message, led the dealer network through a difficult transition and has earned a reputation for tirelessly driving results that benefit consumers, said Docherty.

Docherty also said that Jennifer Costabile, 47, had been named Buick and GMC general sales manager, the job Sweeney had held since 2008.

GM is keeping its Buick, GMC, Chevrolet and Cadillac brands and shedding Saturn, Hummer, Pontiac and Saab. (Reporting by Bernie Woodall; Editing by Toni Reinhold)

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