General Motors has appointed former Volkswagen and Volvo executive Stefan Jacoby to steer international operations replacing Tim Lee, who will become chairman of GM China.

Jacoby will lead operations in more than 100 markets in Africa, Asia Pacific and the Middle East, according to Automotive News Europe.

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

Jacoby stepped down as Volvo CEO late last year after suffering a mild stroke. During a 30-year automotive career, he has had key positions at Mitsubishi and Volkswagen, including head of VW in the United States and CEO of Mitsubishi Europe.