Moro to Head Mazda’s N. American Unit

Mazda Motor Corp. has appointed Masahiro Moro president and CEO of its North American operations, effective Jan. 1. He will continue as a managing executive officer of the company.

Moro, 55, will succeed Jim O’Sullivan, who is retiring after 12 years in the post. O’Sullivan led the brand’s sales growth and is credited with creating a strong relationship between the company and its dealers.

Moro has been based at Mazda headquarters in Hiroshima, where he was in charge of global sales, marketing and customer innovation. In his new role, he also will oversee the company’s global marketing strategy.

After joining Mazda in 1983, Moro held several sales and marketing positions in Europe, Australia and on the corporate staff. He and his family will relocate to California.