Mar 26, 2018   SOURCE: BusinessWire

Mitsubishi Motors Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Don Swearingen to Retire in June

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) Executive Vice President (EVP) and Chief Operating Officer (COO) Don Swearingen announced he will retire, effective June 1, 2018. Swearingen is staying until June 1 to assist in the transition between incoming President and CEO of MMNA Fred Diaz and outgoing President and CEO of MMNA Ryujiro Kobashi, who is returning to Japan.

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Don Swearingen, EVP and COO, MMNA, announced he will retire effective June 1, 2018. (Photo: Business ...

Don Swearingen, EVP and COO, MMNA, announced he will retire effective June 1, 2018. (Photo: Business Wire)

“Sixty has long been my retirement target; and I am walking away knowing Mitsubishi is in the midst of a brand and sales renaissance,” said Swearingen, who turns 60 years old this month. “The new leadership team has a solid foundation to build upon. The next decade should hold many exciting milestones for Mitsubishi Motors.”

“Don has played a critical role in the development and success of our company in North America,” said Mitsubishi Motors North America President and CEO Ryujiro Kobashi. “His inspired leadership, energy and expertise has Mitsubishi currently positioned as the fastest growing non-luxury brand in the United States. Don has truly served with honor and distinction.”

Swearingen’s automotive-industry career has spanned four decades, with 21 years at MMNA. He also spent time at Hyundai, Kia, Toyota and Chrysler. Since ascending to EVP and COO in 2013, Swearingen has played a major role in orchestrating the company’s turnaround in the US. Among the milestones achieved are a return to profitability in 2014, five years of sustained growth and the highest dealer profitability since 2003.

About Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.

Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for all research and development, marketing, and sales for Mitsubishi Motors in the United States. MMNA sells sedans and crossovers/SUVs through a network of approximately 360 dealers. MMNA is leading the way in the development of highly efficient, affordably priced new gasoline-powered automobiles while using its industry-leading knowledge in battery electric vehicles to develop future EV and PHEV models. Mitsubishi has been producing cars for over 100 years. For more information, contact the Mitsubishi Motors News Bureau at 888-560-6672 or visit media.mitsubishicars.com.