Core Viewpoint - General Motors has appointed Claudia Gast from Lucid Motors to lead corporate strategy, focusing on technology partnerships as the automotive industry undergoes significant technological transformations [1][2][3]. Group 1: Executive Appointment - Claudia Gast will serve as GM's deputy chief financial officer and vice president of strategy, corporate development, and technology partnerships, starting March 1 [2]. - Gast will report directly to GM CEO Mary Barra for strategy and CFO Paul Jacobson for corporate development and technology partnerships [2]. Group 2: Industry Trends - The automotive industry is witnessing a trend where many automakers are hiring executives from electric vehicle startups and technology firms to adapt to changes such as electrification, automated driving, and software-centric vehicles [3]. - Gast's appointment follows the departure of Zach Kirkman, a former Tesla executive, who joined GM in 2023 and is leaving for other opportunities [3]. Group 3: Background of Claudia Gast - Prior to joining GM, Gast was the senior vice president of strategy and business development at Lucid Motors and previously led strategy at defense contractor AM General [4].