Marine Mover – Suzuki promotes Woolson to head new dealer operations business group

BREA, Calif. – Suzuki Marine has created a new dealer operations business group to accommodate its growing dealer network, according to a statement from the company Wednesday. Jonathan Woolson, a 13-year Suzuki veteran who originally worked in marine dealership retail sales and dealer development, has been appointed to lead the corporate group as its manager.

Woolson’s first charge is to establish two new dealer sales districts — Eastern Great Lakes (Michigan, Ohio and Indiana) and the Florida Gulf Coast — to give the company better coverage and to improve its dealer services in those boat-rich regions. During the last 18 months, Suzuki Marine has increased its U.S. dealer base by 36%.

“Jon is the natural choice to build our dealer business,” said Larry Vandiver, marketing director for Suzuki Marine. “Our four-stroke outboard motors are in high demand, and we’re thrilled to be expanding our dealerships throughout the country. We expect the boating-rich markets of the Eastern Great Lakes and the Gulf of Florida to become strong Suzuki territories.”

Woolson will be responsible for directing the district sales managers across the country to ensure Suzuki Marine dealers’ sales efforts are fully supported. Acquisition of new dealers, and regional marketing, merchandising and promotions will be under his direction.

“I’m excited to be stepping into this role at a time when our dealer network is stronger than ever,” Woolson said. “We’ll continue to give our dealer team the highest level of service, support and sales promotions, along with the best four-stroke outboard motors that are first in customer satisfaction, as recognized by J.D. Powers.”