Detroit Native Named President and CEO of Mazda North American Operations

HIROSHIMA, Japan, March 24 -- Mazda Motor Corporation today announced that James J. O'Sullivan has been named president and CEO of Mazda North America Operations, effective April 1, 2003. In his new role, O'Sullivan will be responsible for all elements of the company's U.S. and Canadian operations. He will be headquartered in Mazda's Irvine, Calif., office.

O'Sullivan brings to Mazda a wealth of automotive experience from nearly 27 years in the business. He joined Ford Motor Company in 1976 and has held a number of key roles in the areas of sales and marketing. Most recently, he played a leading role at the Lincoln Mercury division of Ford Motor Company as Franchise & Business Development Manager. Prior to that, he served as Lincoln brand manager and oversaw the launch of key Lincoln products. His automotive background includes management of regional retail sales, regional operations, advertising and technical training.

"Jim's well-rounded experience in the U.S. market, particularly in the areas of marketing and franchise development, will help lead the entire North American team to success in this critical market," said David Thomas, director and senior managing executive officer in charge of marketing, sales and customer service of Mazda Motor Corporation.

Born in Detroit in 1953, O'Sullivan graduated from the University of Detroit in 1976 and received a master's degree in marketing in 1984, also from the University of Detroit.