New Mazda Ireland MD

MICHAEL McALEER

Mazda has appointed a new managing director for its Irish operations. Tony Howarth is currently regional business manager for Mazda in northern England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. He will take over as managing director of Ireland from next month.

Howarth replaces Steve Jelliss, who acted as head of the Irish operation after the departure of David McGonigle to Mazda Europe. Jelliss's role was largely as a support base, acting mainly from Mazda UK.

A spokesman for Mazda Ireland said Howarth's focus is to improve dealer sales per outlet and focus on profitability through the implementation of performance-driven sales and aftersales programmes.

The brand's share of the market has slipped below 2 per cent and is being squeezed by the growth in sales of Korean brands, Hyundai and Kia. Mazda is placing its hope for a market recovery on the new Mazda6, launched at the start of this year.