Mazda North America appoints Masahiro Moro as new CEO

Mazda has appointed a new chief executive for its North American operations, as current CEO Jim O’Sullivan plans to retire.

O’Sullivan is said to be the company’s longest-serving president, taking the reins at MNAO in 2003. He is a 40-year industry veteran with 13 years at Mazda, including a role as managing executive director.

“I could not be more sad to see Jim leave Mazda,” said Mazda chief Masamichi Kogai. “Over the years, both MNAO and Mazda itself have been through some difficult times, but Jim has consistently shown strong leadership throughout. With a focus on creating a strong relationship with dealers, he built the sales network we have today in the U.S. and Mexico and led MNAO to increase both sales and profitability and raise the image of the Mazda brand.”

O’Sullivan will be succeeded by Masahiro Moro, currently the company’s global marketing chief. He joined the company in 1983 and previously served in several marketing roles.

While overseeing Mazda’s North America operations, Moro will keep his responsibilities as managing executive officer for global marketing strategy.