Honda makes changes at top
Carolyn McMahon has been promoted to president of Honda NZ and will start her new job on April 1.
She is making history because she’s the first female to lead the marque’s operations in this country.
“I am honoured to take on this role and it’s an exciting time for the automotive industry,” says McMahon.
“I look forward to working with the talented team in New Zealand to continue delivering exceptional experiences for our customers and further strengthening Honda’s presence in the market.”
With almost three decades’ experience at Honda Australia, McMahon has held several leadership roles, including vice-president and director.
In this time, she has been instrumental in driving the company’s industry-first business transformation, and successfully merging cars division across the Tasman with and Honda Australia MPE – motorcycle, power equipment and marine.
Nobu Sonoda, Honda NZ’s current managing director, will transition to director of business services and new business programme for Honda Australia, supporting the company’s electrification strategy.
“After 11 years leading the Honda team in New Zealand, I’m delighted with the opportunity to bring this experience to the Australian market,” he says.
“It’s an exciting time to join Honda Australia with so much change in the automotive industry globally.”
In addition, Jay Joseph has been named chief executive officer and director of Honda Australia. Following time with American Honda as vice-president, he takes over from Yoshitaka Okamoto.
With 27 years under his belt at the company, Joseph brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of the brand to the role. His leadership makes him well-equipped to guide it through its next phase of growth and innovation.
Joseph says: “I’m thrilled to step into the role of CEO and director during this pivotal time for the company.
“Carolyn has left an incredible legacy of innovation, collaboration and customer focus. I’m committed to maintaining that momentum as we evolve our operations and deliver outstanding value to customers across Australia.”
The leadership changes come at a pivotal time for Honda with the company continuing its “transformation” with a focus on strengthening operations and enriching customer experience.
The company says as Honda continues its business transformation, its leadership changes underscore it putting the customer “at the centre of everything it does”.
“With McMahon and Joseph leading the Australian and New Zealand markets, Honda is well-positioned for continued growth and innovation across the region.”
