
Demand for the highly acclaimed Mazda CX-5 crossover has been very positive for the Japanese automaker and the company even announced that SkyActiv engine production will increase two fold to prep for the future demands. However, Mazda is also undergoing big changes as it struggles to revamp its global business operations. In May, iMotor reported of major Mazda job cuts in Europe as well as the United States.
After a 12 year commitment to Mazda North America, Chief Marketing Officer and Mazda Canada president Don Romano announced his resignation from the company earlier this July. Since the restructuring in North America, Romano's departure marks as the highest-profile exec to leave Mazda during this period. What's more, according to inautonews.com, 107 workers were laid off on July 2 as well. No details were revealed on the circumstances pertaining to Romano's resignation but Mazda insists that there is "no connection" between his resignation and the lay-off of the employees.
According to Mazda dealership owner Randy Hiley, "It's really a shock. He was really well respected and liked by the dealers in the United States and in Canada."
Romano's role will be succeeded by Shusuke "Kory" Koreeda, former executive vice president at Mazda Canada.