Toyota Motor North America: Executive Changes and Manufacturing Updates

Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) has recently unveiled strategic executive changes aimed at driving continued growth, advancing its commitment to vehicle electrification, and preparing for the future of mobility. These changes, effective immediately, signify the company's proactive approach to staying at the forefront of innovation and adaptation in the automotive industry.

Promotions:

Kevin Voelkel has been promoted to the role of Senior Vice President, Vehicle Plants. In this capacity, Voelkel will assume responsibility for overseeing North American vehicle production across multiple locations, including Toyota Motor Manufacturing Baja California (TMMBC), Canada (TMMC), Guanajuato (TMMGT), Indiana (TMMI), Mississippi (TMMMS), and Texas (TMMTX). Additionally, he will retain oversight of all North American Truck Manufacturing operations and Toyota's Alabama-based engine plant (TABC). Reporting directly to Takefumi Shiga, Executive Vice President of Production Engineering and Manufacturing at TMNA, Voelkel brings a wealth of experience, having served most recently as the Plant President of TMMTX and as Group Vice President of North American Truck Manufacturing.

Susann Kazunas has been elevated to the position of Plant President at TMMTX. Reporting to Kevin Voelkel, Kazunas will spearhead operations at the Texas-based manufacturing facility. With a background as Vice President of Manufacturing at TMMTX, Kazunas is well-equipped to lead the plant towards continued success.

Retirements:

Brian Krinock, the Senior Vice President of Vehicle Plants, is set to retire effective March 31. During his tenure, Krinock played a pivotal role in overseeing engineering and manufacturing across Toyota's seven vehicle assembly plants in North America. Since joining Toyota in 1991, he has been instrumental in ensuring the company's manufacturing facilities remain competitive, industry-leading, and adaptable to evolving customer and market demands.

Toyota's commitment to North America spans over 65 years, with a dedication to advancing sustainable, next-generation mobility through its Toyota and Lexus brands, alongside a vast network of more than 1,800 dealerships. Employing over 63,000 individuals in North America, Toyota has contributed to the design, engineering, and assembly of nearly 47 million cars and trucks across its 13 manufacturing plants. Looking ahead, Toyota's forthcoming 14th plant in North Carolina is poised to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles by 2025.

With an extensive lineup of 27 electrified options and a steadfast commitment to innovation, Toyota remains a leader in driving the future of mobility and sustainability in the automotive landscape.