• by Tanya Gazdik , March 2, 2017

Toyota is shifting some of its marketing executives in an effort to strengthen regional integration in North America. 

“This will allow us to bring new perspectives and insights to these critical roles in order to respond more quickly to our customers’ needs,” says Jim Lentz, chief executive officer, Toyota Motor North America, in a release.

Effective April 1, Bob Carter -- currently senior vice president, automotive operations -- will become executive vice president, sales for TMNA, president, TMS, and executive general manager, TMC. Carter will have responsibility for sales, marketing, distribution and customer service for the Toyota and Lexus brands in North America. Carter will report to Lentz. 

Bill Fay, group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division, is named senior vice president, automotive operations, for Toyota and Lexus brands, succeeding Carter. Fay will report to Carter.

Jack Hollis, group vice president, Toyota division marketing, TMS, is named group vice president and general manager, Toyota Division, succeeding Fay. Hollis will report to Fay.

Ed Laukes -- currently vice president, Toyota division marketing, media, incentives and motorsports, TMS -- is named group vice president, Toyota division marketing, succeeding Hollis. Laukes will report to Hollis.

All are based out of Plano, Texas, at Toyota’s North American manufacturing, sales and marketing, and corporate operations. The new designation of its operating entity is Toyota Motor North America (TMNA).

Ten other executives in other areas of the company were also shifted. 

“These changes were well considered and will better position Toyota for sustainable, long-term growth both in North America and globally,” Lentz says.