Mazda Motor Corporation Promotes O'Sullivan to Managing Executive Officer
IRVINE, Calif., May 13, 2004 -- Mazda Motor Corporation, Hiroshima, Japan, today announced a series of executive management changes. As part of the announcement, James J. O'Sullivan was promoted from executive officer to managing executive officer, Mazda Motor Corporation, effective June 22, 2004. While taking on elevated responsibilities within the corporation, O'Sullivan's North American duties remain unchanged. He will continue to be responsible for all aspects of the company's U.S. and Canadian operations as president and chief executive officer.
Since O'Sullivan joined Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) in April 2003, the company has seen steady sales increases. April's sales results, which were up 10.2 percent versus the same period last year, marked Mazda's seventh consecutive month of double-digit sales increases over the prior year.
"Jim's leadership at MNAO has not only led to sales success in North America, but has energized the entire dealer body to ensure even greater sales volume in the future," said Stephen Odell, Mazda's senior managing executive officer and director in charge of global sales, marketing and customer service.
Hisakazu Imaki, president and CEO, Mazda Motor Corporation, said, "Jim has a solid understanding of the Mazda business and has been instrumental in strengthening sales over the last year. He has continued to focus on company growth while building even stronger dealer and customer relationships."
The announcement of executive changes was made in conjunction with the release of the company's strong FY 2003 financial results. The company turned in its third consecutive year of sales and revenue growth and operating profits that were the strongest in a decade.
Mazda North American Operations is responsible for the sales and marketing, customer parts and services support of Mazda vehicles in the United States. Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., MNAO has more than 700 dealerships nationwide.
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