7:52 am, November 6, 2008
SUBARU and Isuzu importer, International Motors Ltd, has made a series of major management changes, which will impact on all Subaru and Isuzu dealers.
Big news is the creation of a new post, that of sales director for Subaru and Isuzu.
This role is to be taken by 53-yar-old Sam Burton, pictured opposite. He’s worked for IM Group before, and joins after going alone to set up retail and recruitment businesses.
The new position is seen as a key one for the company. Burton is charged with forging far stronger links with dealers, and helping develop and drive forward the sales approach.
There are big changes elsewhere, though. Subaru marketing manager John Fossey becomes brand director for both Subaru and Isuzu. He’s going to be working on product development and pricing strategy.
Kenyon Neads becomes marketing manager for both brands – looking at national campaigns, dealers marketing, digital media and regional events.
And Mike Cousen is now national franchise manager. His task is to encourage the next generation of dealers – who remain, as IM Group admits, the principal route to the market.
Lawrence Good, managing director, Subaru and Isuzu, said: ‘The restructure has been a very important and necessary step, in order for the company to meet the challenges of a changing environment.’
