Detroit's Chrysler House Is Now Open For Business
DETROIT -- (WWJ) Employees of Chrysler's Great Lakes Business Center are now working out of new offices in downtown Detroit.
"We are proud to contribute to the continuing transformation of the Motor City," said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand and Head of U.S. Sales, Chrysler Group. "I am thrilled that one of my teams will be embedded in the city that means so much to our company."
The Chrysler workers—mostly involved in sales and marketing--will occupy the top two floors of what used to be the Dime Building. As part of the deal, the building has been renamed Chrysler House. Chrysler CEO Sergio Marchionne will also have an office in that building.
Chrysler spokeswoman Katie Hepler said, while they have manufacturing operations in Detroit, the company felt they had to make more of a commitment.
"It's really important to us to also have a corporate presence downtown, to feel the energy of our city,��� she said. "Hopefully it will contribute to some creativity and innovation that goes forward in our advertising and sales."
All totaled 70 employees will occupy the 33 thousand square feet of space. Chrysler says the office will include a large training room, state-of-the-art board room and a kitchen.
"We are excited to get settled and to really enjoy all that downtown Detroit has to offer," said Mike Dragojevic, Head of the Great Lakes Business Center. "There is an energy and creativity around the city that is infectious."
Connect with Jeff Gilbert
Email: jdgilbert@cbs.com
Facebook: facebook.com/carchronicles
Twitter: @jefferygilbert
