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ATLANTA — Porsche Cars North America on Thursday revealed its new general counsel, a veteran legal professional who the automaker said has actually been on the job since last month.

Reporting directly to president and chief executive officer Detlev von Platen is Joseph Folz. The company indicated Folz not only will lead its legal department but also will serve as corporate secretary.

Folz came to Porsche from the automotive practice group of Chicago law firm Barack Ferrazzano Kirschbaum and Nagelberg. Executives noted Folz spent the past two years counseling several vehicle manufacturers on franchise, distribution and trade regulation law.

Previously, Folz had been executive vice president of corporate relations, general counsel and secretary of Volkswagen Group of America. During his 29-year tenure with the VW Group, officials indicated Folz not only led the legal department but also oversaw government relations, product liaison, vehicle regulations, aviation and corporate diversity initiatives.

Folz began his career at General Motors.