Mitsubishi Motors Announces Hiring of New North Central Regional Director

CYPRESS, Calif., Sept. 13 -- Michael Tocci, senior vice president sales, fleet and distribution of Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) today announced the hiring of Charles Johnpeter as the company's regional director, North Central Region. Johnpeter succeeds Casey Griffin, who resigned from the position last week.

"We're thrilled to have Charlie on the team," said Tocci. "He will be a tremendous asset to Mitsubishi Motors North America and to our sales efforts in the North Central Region."

Johnpeter comes from Hyundai Motor America where he served as vice president of Hyundai's Central Region. He began his career with Hyundai in 1985 in Atlanta, Georgia, as market representation manager, then moved to Hyundai's Central Region where he served as regional sales manager, general manager, and eventually vice president. During his tenure there, sales grew from 15,000 vehicles to 71,900 vehicles for the 140 dealers making up the region.

"I am very confident in the senior management at Mitsubishi Motors North America, and look forward to joining a great team. I know the Midwest market and many of its dealers well, and I'm ready to be part of Mitsubishi's turnaround there," said Johnpeter.

Prior to joining Hyundai, Johnpeter worked for nine years at Ford Motor Company in the sales area. He is a graduate of DePauw University in Indiana, and earned a Masters Degree in International Business from American Graduate School of International Management. Charles is married with two daughters, Anna and Betsy.

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for all manufacturing, finance, sales, marketing, research and development operations of the Mitsubishi Motors Corporation in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico. Mitsubishi Motors sells coupes, convertibles, sedans and sport utility vehicles through a network of nearly 700 dealers throughout North America. For more information, contact the Mitsubishi Motors News Bureau at (888) 560-6672 or visit media.mitsubishicars.com.