SUZUKI AUTO APPOINTS NEW VICE PRESIDENT OF DEALER DEVELOPMENT
Industry veteran to strengthen growing dealer body
BREA, Calif., (Oct. 1, 2007) – As part of its continuing effort to strengthen its U.S. operations, American Suzuki Motor Corp. today announced that Tom Lynch has joined its executive automotive team as vice president of dealer development. In this newly created position, Lynch will oversee the appointment and growth of Suzuki franchisees and their enrollment into the company’s Suzuki Square retail brand image program. He also will be responsible for Suzuki’s overall market representation strategy and new dealer support initiatives.
Lynch arrives at Suzuki amid considerable sales growth, and he will lead a key strategic effort aimed at increasing the breadth, depth and strength of Suzuki automotive dealers in the U.S. to match the increasing demand for Suzuki cars and SUVs. This includes efforts to help make existing dealers more profitable and successful as well as the expansion of the company’s Suzuki Square retail brand image facility program. Suzuki Auto’s sales last year rose 23 percent over 2005, as the company sold an all-time high of 100,990 vehicles – the best sales year in company history. American Suzuki continues its sales growth in 2007, with year-to-date sales currently ahead of last year’s pace. This growth is supported by a dealer network of more than 500 dealers, of which more than 160 are now Suzuki Square dealers – up from approximately 50 only two years ago.
“Everyone at Suzuki is pleased to have an experienced and respected industry professional at the helm of such an important division within our organization,� said Mark Harano, president of American Suzuki’s Automotive Operations. “The success of the Suzuki brand starts with great products like the all-new four-door SX4 Sport, but it’s the support of an energized and committed dealer body that takes our vehicles to our customers, and we couldn’t be happier to have Tom’s leadership at the forefront of such an enthusiastic dealer network.�
Lynch, 48, has worked in the automotive industry since graduating from Michigan State University with a degree in Business Administration. He began his career with Ford Motor Company’s Lincoln Mercury Division, working in numerous sales and marketing capacities. He later joined Nissan North America where he held several management-level positions, ultimately becoming Regional Vice President for Nissan Division’s Northwest Region.
“I’ve been working in the automotive business for more than two decades, and I’ve always welcomed the opportunity to take what I’ve learned and apply it to new and exciting challenges,� said Lynch. “With appealing products like the all-new XL7 and SX4, future products set to make an indelible imprint on the industry and the support of a passionate network of more than 500 dealers, my new position with Suzuki is much more than just a great opportunity – it’s a real privilege.�
