Mazda Names Jeremy Barnes Product Communications Manager

IRVINE, Calif., Nov. 11, 2002; Mazda North American Operations today announced the recent appointment of Jeremy Barnes as product communications manager. Barnes will be the primary point of contact for all North American media on issues relating to Mazda's vehicles, MAZDASPEED components and vehicles, and the company's North American motorsports operations.

In making the announcement, Jay Amestoy, vice president of public and government affairs, said, "Jeremy is a perfect fit for Mazda. Not only is he a seasoned PR professional, he's been a Miata owner and enthusiast for years as well as an avid racing fan and competitor, racing a 1984 Mazda RX-7 in the Sports Car Club of America at tracks throughout the Pacific Southwest."

Barnes joins Mazda from Lincoln Mercury in Irvine, Calif., where he held a similar position in product communications. Prior to that, he worked with Aston Martin and Land Rover North America, as well as Jaguar North America, with responsibilities for many non-product related issues. Before that, Barnes held a number of public and government relations positions at Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc., in Torrance, Calif.

Mazda North American Operations is responsible for the sales and marketing, customer parts and service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States. Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., MNAO has more than 700 dealerships nationwide.