Ferlazzo takes Holden design reins

HOLDEN has confirmed that Richard Ferlazzo has taken over as its design director after Andrew Smith left the Australian car-maker last month to become executive director of global Cadillac and Buick design in Detroit.

Mr Ferlazzo is responsible for “advanced, production and global contract” programs at Holden, which includes the next-generation ‘VJ’ Commodore currently in development and due for release in 2017.

He reports to Australian-based executive director of GM International Operations Design, Mike Simcoe, and has a second reporting line to GM Holden chairman and managing director Mike Devereux.

He also becomes a member of Holden’s senior leadership team.

“To now be leading such an experienced and dynamic team here at Holden design is a genuine privilege,” Mr Ferlazzo said.

“I see my new role as integral to helping shape the Holden brand of the future and driving global collaboration for future product development.

“Holden is in my blood and I’m looking forward to the challenge of ensuring Holden vehicles continue to evolve to meet the needs of our customers now and in the future,” he said.

An industrial design graduate from RMIT in Melbourne, Mr Ferlazzo has worked for Holden since 1988, starting as a creative designer and moving through the ranks to lead positions across interior, exterior and advanced design, including concept car creation and international design programs.

He has contributed to virtually every Commodore program since the 1988 VN, led the exterior design team for the VT and was chief designer of VE and the current VF.

He also led the ‘new millennium’ V2 Monaro and GTO program, was responsible for the acclaimed 2005 Efijy concept, and had a stint in Detroit during the mid-1990s, working on Chevrolet and Cadillac programs.