Jack Uppal and Luay Al Shurafa
General Motors has named Jack Uppal president and managing director of GM Canada, effective Feb. 1, 2026, marking a return home for the Canadian executive after more than a decade in senior international roles.
Uppal is currently president and managing director of GM Africa & Middle East and will report to Duncan Aldred, senior vice-president and president of GM North America. He will work closely with Kristian Aquilina during the transition period ahead of his start date, GM said.
“Jack’s proven global leadership experience and deep knowledge of Canada will be instrumental for building a strong future for GM in Canada,” said Aldred.
Uppal said his return carries both professional and personal significance. “As a proud Canadian, I’m honoured to be returning home and I look forward to working alongside our talented employees, dealers and partners to strengthen collaboration and unlock new opportunities together,” he said.
Under Uppal’s leadership, GM Africa & Middle East delivered volume and market-share growth along with sustained financial performance in a highly competitive region. GM said that progress was driven by a portfolio strategy that introduced several vehicle propulsion options and expanded in-vehicle connected services. Uppal also led the turnaround of GM Egypt, restoring Chevrolet as the market leader.
Uppal enters the role with 24 years of experience with GM, having held senior leadership roles across sales, marketing, customer experience, strategic planning and brand management. He began his career with GM Canada in 2001 and has since worked across China, India, Singapore and the Middle East, building a reputation for a customer-focused approach and operational execution.
His background in portfolio management and connected services could influence how GM works with dealers on sales growth, urban market share and evolving customer expectations.
