John Doonan Named Director of Mazda Motorsports

- Promotion Signals Racing's Increased Importance in Mazda's Corporate Strategy -

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May 26, 2011, 07:04 ET

IRVINE, Calif., May 26, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today announced that John Doonan, manager of motorsports team development, has been promoted to Director, Mazda Motorsports, effective immediately. In his new role, Doonan will be responsible for all motorsports activities in North America and will report to Jay Amestoy, vice president, public affairs and motorsports.

"John has played a key role in Mazda's growth and success in the motorsports arena and has been instrumental expanding our strategic racing partnerships," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO of MNAO. "This promotion should serve to underscore John's contribution to our overall business, as well as the importance motorsports plays in Mazda's corporate strategy."

Under Doonan's direction, the company developed the MAZDASPEED Motorsports Development Ladder program and relationships with the Star Mazda and Indy Car Series. Mazda also captured manufacturers' championships in both Grand Am GT and World Challenge Touring Car.

Doonan joined MNAO in 2003 as manager of advertising and marketing for the company's Midwest Region and was later named manager of motorsports team development in 2005. A graduate of Augustana College in Rock Island, Illinois, with a Bachelor of Science degree, Doonan also holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Western Illinois University.

Mazda North American Operations is headquartered in Irvine, Calif. and oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario; and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

SOURCE Mazda North American Operations