The Executive was created by combining the Clipper Custom's body, complete with its distinctive tail light design, and installing the front fenders, hood, and radiator grille assembly of the senior Packard models.

Although the Executive sold as fast as it was produced[citation needed] it was not enough to substantially improve the financial picture for the Packard-Clipper Division.

Even as the Executive was being announced, the media had already been reporting of sales and fiscal woes at the Studebaker-Packard Corporation, and rumors were flying the Packard marque might be discontinued.

Buyers did not wish to be stuck with a so-called “orphan” car, where spare parts would no longer be available from a dealer, and resale values would be negatively impacted.

During the Executive's shortened model year of March through June, Packard built a total of 2,779[2] Executives—1,031 two-door hardtops and 1,748 four-door sedans.