- Automotive veteran to lead sales operations in Bentley’s largest market
- Joins from Volkswagen Financial Services
(Reston, VA, 21 November 2024) On behalf of Bentley Motors, Inc. Jun Watanabe has been appointed to Senior Director, Sales and Operations, effective 9 December, 2024. Based in Reston, Va., Jun will report directly to Mike Rocco, President and CEO.
In this key leadership position, Jun will be responsible for the field sales organization, retail growth, ordering, distribution, dealer network development, training initiatives, preowned, and ensuring the delivery of unparalleled Bentley customer experience.
“We are pleased to welcome Jun’s wealth of knowledge in the auto industry, retailer network and US market to Bentley,” said Mike Rocco, President and CEO of Bentley Americas. “Jun joins Bentley’s largest market at a pivotal time as the new Continental GT Speed comes to market our focus embodies the Beyond100+ focus. His extensive experience and strategic vision make him an exceptional addition to our leadership team.”
Jun brings more than 20 years of experience in the automotive industry and a proven track record in leadership roles across both regional and headquarters settings. Most recently, he served as Director of Audi Sales Operations – Financial Services at VCI. Prior, Jun held pivotal roles, including Director of Network at Audi of America and several regional leadership positions at Nissan North America, such as Regional General Manager and Area General Manager.
Jun comments, “It is a great honor and privilege to represent this iconic brand. I am looking forward to working with our Bentley teams and retail dealer network to set the course for our mutual success.”
– ENDS –
**How will Mr. Watanabe’s diverse experience across various automotive brands inform Bentley’s strategy for attracting a new generation of luxury car buyers while maintaining its appeal to loyal clientele?**
## Interview: Navigating Luxury in a Shifting Landscape
**Guests:**
* **Mike Rocco:** President and CEO of Bentley Americas
* **Jun Watanabe:** Senior Director, Sales and Operations, Bentley Americas
**Introduction:**
Welcome to “World Today News,” where we delve into the latest developments shaping our world. Today, we’re focusing on the luxury automotive sector with the exciting appointment of Jun Watanabe as Bentley’s Senior Director of Sales and Operations in the US market.
We’re joined by both Mr. Rocco and Mr. Watanabe to discuss this pivotal move and explore Bentley’s future in this dynamic landscape.
**Section 1: A New Era at Bentley US**
* **Question (to Mr. Rocco):** Mr. Rocco, Bentley Motors has a rich history and strong heritage. What specific factors led to the decision to appoint a new leader for your largest market at this particular juncture?
* **Question:** (to Mr. Watanabe): Mr. Watanabe, having worked across different automotive brands and within diverse roles, what attracts you to Bentley’s vision, and what resonates most with you in “Beyond100,” their strategic vision for the future?
**Section 2: Navigating Growth and Challenges**
* **Question (to both):** The luxury car market faces unique challenges and evolving consumer trends. What are some of the key opportunities and potential hurdles for Bentley in the US market today?
* **Question (to Mr. Watanabe):** Can you elaborate on your approach to nurturing the existing dealer network while expanding Bentley’s reach and attracting new customers in a competitive landscape?
**Section 3: Delivering the Bentley Experience**
* **Question (to both):** Bentley is synonymous with an exceptional customer experience. How will this appointment and the “Beyond100” strategy contribute to maintaining and elevating that experience across all touchpoints?
* **Question (to Mr. Rocco):** Beyond the iconic vehicles, what role does innovation play in shaping Bentley’s future and ensuring its continued relevance?
**Section 4: Looking Ahead**
* **Question (to both):** As we look towards the future, what are your key expectations and aspirations for Bentley in the US market under Mr. Watanabe’s leadership?
* **Question (to Mr. Watanabe):** what message would you like to convey to Bentley enthusiasts, potential customers, and the automotive industry as a whole about this new chapter for Bentley in the US?
**Closing:**
Thank you, Mr. Rocco and Mr. Watanabe, for sharing your insights and perspectives. We look forward to witnessing Bentley’s continued evolution and success in the US market under your expertise.
This interview structure aims to provide a balanced and informative discussion, delving into the key aspects of Jun Watanabe’s appointment and its implications for Bentley’s future. The open-ended questions encourage thoughtful responses and allow for diverse viewpoints, resulting in a compelling and insightful interview.
