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Mitsubishi Motors Appoints Michael Helgesen As West-Central Regional Vice President To Strengthen Dealer Network
Michael Helgesen has been appointed as the West-Central Regional Vice President for Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA). With over 35 years in automotive leadership, Helgesen will oversee sales, aftersales, and franchise development in this region. He reports directly to Mark Chaffin, MMNA's President and CEO. Helgesen's role will focus on enhancing dealer relationships and supporting MMNA's dealer network success.
Helgesen's extensive career includes various leadership roles in the automotive sector, covering retail and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) positions. He has also collaborated with suppliers to integrate technology into retail operations. "As I step into this role, my focus will be on building strong relationships with our dealer partners and ensuring their success within the Mitsubishi ecosystem," said Helgesen.
Mark Chaffin expressed enthusiasm about Helgesen joining the team, stating, "We are thrilled to welcome Mike Helgesen to the MMNA team." Chaffin highlighted Helgesen's valuable experience as crucial for expanding the dealer network and boosting Mitsubishi Motors' presence in the West-Central region. The Momentum 2030 business plan aims to strengthen and expand into new markets.
Before joining MMNA, Helgesen was Vice President of Sales and Business Development at AutoFi for nearly five years. There, he managed the strategic growth of SaaS operations. His previous experience includes more than three years at Cox Automotive in senior leadership roles, where he improved retail performance and digital applications nationwide.
Mitsubishi Motors North America operates through a network of around 330 dealers across the U.S., handling sales, marketing, and customer service for Mitsubishi vehicles. The company recently unveiled its five-year business plan called "Momentum 2030," which outlines plans for product transformation and business growth.
The Momentum 2030 plan includes launching one new or refreshed model each year until 2030. This expansion will nearly double the current lineup of four vehicles by incorporating advanced-technology internal combustion engines, hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and battery electrics.
Helgesen's Previous Roles
Helgesen spent over 16 years at Kia Motors America, eventually becoming Director of Central Region Operations. At Cox Automotive, he served as Senior Divisional Manager for Enterprise Partnerships. In this role, he led teams that supported OEMs and dealer groups across the country.
MMNA is headquartered in Franklin, Tennessee, with corporate operations in California, Georgia, Michigan, and New Jersey. For more information about Mitsubishi vehicles, visit MitsubishiCars.com.
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