GM names N. American labor releations head

DETROIT, Aug 12 Reuters reported that General Motors Corp.said on Monday that it named John Buttermore, a 24-year manufacturing veteran, as vice president of labor relations for North America as the world's largest automaker prepares for a new contract with the United Auto Workers next year.

Buttermore, since July 2000 the manufacturing manager for 10 of GM's North American vehicle assembly plants, replaces Troy Clarke, who became group vice president of manufacturing and labor relations on June 1. Buttermore will report to Clarke, who will be the lead negotiator in contract talks.

GM's current four-year contract with the United Auto Workers union expires in September next year. GM is currently in negotiations with the Canadian Auto Workers union ahead of the expiration of its current three-year contract in September this year.