General Motors vice chairman Bob Lutz, a longtime executive who had a hand in developing some of the company’s most popular vehicles, announced on Wednesday that he will retire from the automaker effective May 1.

Lutz, 78, had actually planned on retiring at the end of last year, but agreed in July to remain head of sales and marketing operations. He was one of the few members of upper management to be kept on after the company filed for bankruptcy protection last year, according to The New York Times.

“The influence Bob Lutz has had on GM’s commitment to design, build and sell the world’s best vehicles will last for years to come,” said Ed Whitacre, General Motors CEO.

“I, along with many other men and women at GM and throughout the industry, have greatly benefited from his passion, wisdom and guidance,” he added.
Lutz, a former marine pilot, championed many of GM’s most influential vehicles, including the Chevy Volt, Saturn Aura and the Chevy Silverado pickup.

The news of Lutz’ retirement comes only a day after the American automaker announced that it will shakeup its executive ranks and reassign some managers to separate sales and marketing responsibilities.