The role of vice president communications will be assumed by Wojciech Halarewicz, currently managing director of Mazda Italy. Effective from 1 March 2013, the new position will see him oversee all communications related to strategy and operations at Mazda Motor Europe.

Mr Halarewicz will report to Jeff Guyton, president and CEO of Mazda Motor Europe, who commented: ‘We are increasingly convinced that in today’s world the lines between Marketing and Public Relations are becoming blurred. This is especially true in digital media. A comprehensive strategy is needed to ensure alignment across “all things public”, and our organisation will now mirror this.

‘With Wojciech’s international background and extensive experience both inside and outside of Mazda, I am confident that he will provide strong and energetic leadership to move the Mazda brand forward,’ Mr Guyton added.

The role of managing director, Mazda Motor Italy will be filled by Andrea Fiaschetti, presently director marketing and sales at the organisation.

Mazda Motor Europe has also announced the appointment of Alex Janssens as chief information officer at Mazda Motor Europe, again reporting to Jeff Guyton.

Currently director of European financial services, Mr Janssens will oversee all information systems related to strategy and operations of Mazda in Europe in his new role.

He will be replaced as director of financial services by Christine Plasmans, who brings 14 years of experience at Mazda.

‘These appointments are well deserved, as both Alex and Christine are very capable professionals and have been key contributors to our business over the course of their significant careers at Mazda,’ added Mr Guyton.