Sterling Anderson, General Motors’ Chief Product Officer, views the company as a canvas for innovation. In his role, he oversees all aspects of GM’s product portfolio, aiming to accelerate innovation by integrating software and hardware. Anderson’s approach recently led to the unexpected departures of key software and AI executives.

Anderson, a former Tesla executive, has shifted GM’s focus towards software-defined vehicles and autonomy. His goal is to create a safe self-driving product without human intervention. GM is targeting autonomous highway driving in vehicles by 2028, leveraging Anderson’s expertise in vehicle autonomy.

Despite his success, Anderson faces challenges in retaining talent at GM. Several key executives, including those in software and services, have left the company. Anderson’s innovative approach and focus on software integration continue to shape GM’s future in the automotive industry. Several Silicon Valley executives express optimism about GM and praise CEO Mary Barra. Jens Peter “JP” Clausen joins GM as head of manufacturing but unexpectedly departs after a year. Executives from Tesla and other tech companies have short tenures at GM due to challenges integrating technology. CEO Barra known for hiring executives opportunistically. GM aims to innovate and position itself for the future under new leadership.

Read more at CNBC: GM’s new product chief Sterling Anderson eyes technology renaissance for automaker