Chris Preuss, one-time executive VP-global communications at General Motors and president of its OnStar telematics unit, has joined Hill & Knowlton.

As part of WPP auto team in Dearborn, Preuss will work on WPP’s Ford Motor’s PR team, while developing a global transportation practice for H&K.

Preuss led GM’s communications effort during its bankruptcy, U.S. bailout and global restructuring that set the stage for the automaker’s comeback.

Ken Luce, global COO of H&K, called Preuss a “major addition to our team” that will “strengthen our stance as a truly global partner with Ford.”

In his 13 years at GM, Preuss was VP-Europe communications, executive director of global product and brand, director of government affairs and technology communications and director of Cadillac communications.

He also worked at Chrysler and headed auto accounts at GolinHarris, MSLGroup and Campbell & Co.