Chrysler has tapped industry heavyweight James E. Press as its new vice chairman and president, the company announced on Thursday.

Press comes to Chrysler after 37 years at Toyota Motors, most recently leading the Japanese automaker's North America unit and serving on the parent company's board.

Chrysler, newly owned by Cerberus Capital Management, will place Press in charge of sales, marketing, and product strategy for the company.

Press joins vice chairman and president Tom LaSorda and freshly hired C.E.O. and Chairmen Robert Nardelli in the top ranks of Chrysler.  

"Tom LaSorda and I are thrilled that one of the most successful executives in the history of the auto industry has joined our leadership team at the New Chrysler," Nardelli said in a statement.

Press has a reputation as a leader in the auto industry, and is credited with piloting Toyota's overwhelming growth and success in North America.

RELATED LINKS:

• Chrysler's Extreme Takeover 
• Chrysler's Bumpy Ride