In its continued efforts to rehabilitate in the wake of bankruptcy proceedings, Chrysler Group has announced internal leadership changes and the creation of a new brand, Ram, for its trucks.

In a company statement, the news was announced that Michael Accavitti, the CEO of the company's Dodge brand has "resigned to pursue other interests," with top designer, Ralph Gilles, assuming the post.

Sergio Marchionne, Chrysler CEO said, "This reorganization will allow us to protect and develop the unique nature of the product offerings within the Dodge Brand." Gilles will continue to be in charge of design.

In other changes, Peter Fong has resigned as CEO of the Chrysler brand and will be replaced by Olivier Francois, who will also remain as head of Fiat's Lancia brand. Fong cited "personal reasons" for his resignation.

Accavitti has been with Chrysler for more than 20 years. In the mid-1980s he was a a manufacturing engineer in Chrysler's joint venture with Maserati that produced the Chrysler TC. Additionally, he held positions in manufacturing, product development, and marketing in Southeast Asia. Before taking his position at Dodge, Accavitti worked as Chrysler LLC's director of brand marketing.

Fong, a former pilot with the U.S. Navy, joined Lincoln Mercury in 1987, working as a parts and service zone manager. Last year, he joined Chrysler, leaving a job in sales and marketing operations with Ford. Before working with the Chrysler brand, he was director of Chrysler's mid-Atlantic business center.