New managing director for Mazda

Martin Benders will become managing director of Mazda Australia, effective May 1, 2013.

Benders replaces Doug Dickson, who after 35 years with Mazda Australia – including nine years as managing director – is retiring.

Yuji Nakamine, Mazda Motor Corporation director and senior managing executive officer in charge of global marketing, sales and customer service says: “Martin Benders brings to the role a wealth of experience of both the Australian and overseas markets.

“This experience will ensure that Mazda in Australia continues to be a strong, vibrant brand and a favourite with local car buyers”. 

With 27 years experience with Mazda, Benders started his career in 1987 in Mazda’s Queensland state office before becoming Victorian state manager in 1990 and then marketing manager in 1997.

A decade later he moved overseas, becoming head of global product marketing at Mazda headquarters in Hiroshima. Most recently he has been vice president of sales for Mazda Motor Europe.

Announcing the changes, Nakamine acknowledged the significant contribution Dickson had made to the Mazda business.

“As managing director for nine years, Dickson has overseen significant sales and market share growth that has made Mazda the top selling import brand in Australia for the past eight years.

“And last year Mazda established another milestone, becoming the first import brand to sell more than 100,000 vehicles in a calendar year.

“That success has also driven Mazda3 to become the country’s top seller for the past two years. These achievements are testament to Dickson’s leadership.”