Suzuki names Gus Blakely division head, director of marine sales

Suzuki Motor of America, Inc. has announced the promotion of Gus Blakely to Marine Sales Division Head, Director.

In his new role, Blakely will be responsible for marine sales and marketing, new product development and overall divisional operations. Blakely will report to Takuya Sato, EVP of Marine Sales.

“This promotion recognizes not only the contributions Gus has made to our marine business over the years, but his capabilities as a manager and a leader,” said Tak Hayasaki, president of SMAI. “The marine business is poised for growth, and we are excited to have Gus leading the charge.”

With Blakely’s promotion, the structure of the Marine Sales Division will remain intact. Reporting to Blakely will be national sales manager Jon Woolson, boat builder sales manager Max Kelley, national sales communications manager Chris White and product testing and development manager Dave Greenwood,

“We’re proud of our recent growth, but we know it’s going to take focus and effort to get Suzuki to the next level,” said Blakely. “I’m grateful to have been given this opportunity to lead our team of MotorMen and I’m ready to take on a new challenge.”

Blakely is a 26-year veteran of Suzuki and has worked in product development, sales and marketing for both motorcycles and marine product lines. Most recently, Blakely was general manager of national sales, planning and development for the marine division.