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On November 5, Tom Sullivan died in Las Vegas, Nevada, who was one of the architects for Toyota to arrive in Mexico 20 years ago.
Let’s talk about the man who leaves a mark…
Tom’s legacy for Toyota began in 1987 in the United States of America when he began his career for Toyota Financial Services (TFS) in the Los Angeles, California office. His commitment led him to open the first TFS office in Latin America in 1996, located in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Repeating this achievement he 20 years ago in Mexico to later become president of Toyota Motor Sales and Lexus Mexico.
In 35 years of career in the company, one of his most significant achievements is to position the company in fourth place in sales in Mexico, thus paving the way for an electrified future by making Toyota the brand with the most hybrid electric vehicles. sold in the country. Also, His years in the presidency of Toyota Motor Sales and Lexus de México were characterized by constant and sustained growth of the brand, achieving a market share of 9% in 2021.
Tom’s leadership also helped Toyota de México achieve one of its most important goals in 2016 when the company surpassed the sale of more than 100 thousand cars in one year for the first time (104,955 units). This achievement contributed to achieving one million vehicles sold in the country at the beginning of 2019.
Tom was characterized by his commitment to caring for the environment and for being one of the main promoters of social causes that sought to give back to the most vulnerable communities in Mexico. True to this, during his almost two decades in our country, he supported social responsibility projects that made him personally proud, such as “Toyota Driving a Better Mexico” and Telethon.
With his departure, Tom Sullivan leaves behind many fond memories. Those who knew him will remember his special sense of humor, his always optimistic vision, his ability to lead in moments of success, but above all in those of greatest challenges; with a look that conveyed confidence to those who had the opportunity to work and coincide with him. A golf lover and with an excellent swing, he had a special gift for making those around him feel close. Number one fan of the New England Patriots and their namesake Tom Brady, from whom important leadership analogies always arose for those who turned to Tom for advice.
Mentor and leader, Tom earned a very important place in the hearts of the entire Toyota family and the journalists who knew him not only professionally, but also personally. We will remember him as a charismatic, empathetic leader, committed to the Mexicans; who dreamed big and exceeded his goals.
Rest in peace Tom. You will always remain in our hearts. Thank you for your contribution and dedication, for your contribution to the growth and development of a team that, today more than ever, will forever be your Toyota family in Mexico!