Over 200 automotive industry executives gathered in Detroit to honor Mazda CEO, Jim O'Sullivan, as 2009 Automotive Executive of the Year at the Detroit Athletic Club on May 6.
The Award is sponsored by DNV and was presented by Richard Stolk, Director of Operations for DNV region North, Central and South America to Jim O'Sullivan in recognition of his leadership, innovation, and vision for the automotive industry's future.
The automotive industry will be back stronger than ever
During his acceptance speech, Jim O'Sullivan acknowledged the entire Mazda team - both past and present. He also called attention to the automotive industry's global impact. "Think of the opportunities our industry has created for people, and not just here in the U.S. but the world over," he said. "We should be proud of the fact that our industry has improved the lives of millions around the world."
In response to concerns about the industry's current distress, Jim O'Sullivan noted that the "pain is being shared by all" and, although the industry is rapidly changing and "none of us knows what the next few months will bring," he predicts "that, regardless of all the negative news around us, things will get better. The industry will be back stronger than ever."
Responsible for all aspects of Mazda's U.S., Canadian, Mexican, and Puerto Rican operations, Jim O'Sullivan highlighted the automakers’ relatively positive outlook in an otherwise bleak market. He also noted that Mazda has been "recalibrating” its inventory and sees more and more positive growth for the back of the year."
Modesty, integrity, leadership, and vision
"Modesty, integrity, leadership, and vision, make Jim O'Sullivan the ideal recipient for the 2009 Automotive Executive of the Year Award," said Robert Djurovic, Director of Automotive Services for DNV in the US and Executive Director of the Award Program. "Each of us here today has been inspired by your strong commitment to excellence for the sake of this industry."
James O'Sullivan
As President and CEO for Mazda North American Operations and Executive Officer, Mazda Motor Corporation, James O'Sullivan is responsible for the company's U.S., Canadian, Mexican and Puerto Rican operations. He has been in this role since April 2003 and brings to Mazda a wealth of experience from more than 30 years in the automotive business.
Automotive Executive of the Year History
The Automotive Executive of the Year award has recognized excellence in automotive leadership from OEM executives since 1964. Past winners include Carroll Shelby, Jim Press, Bill Ford, Jr., Dieter Zetsche, Rick Wagoner, Henry Ford II, Robert Eaton, Thomas Stallkamp, Roger Smith, Harold E. Poling, Lee Iacocca and John DeLorean.
The Automotive Executive of the Year Award nominating committee is composed of automotive industry media, prominent industry analysts and automotive supplier CEOs.