After 36 years of dedication and significant contributions to the world’s leading global automobile company, Toyota Motor Sales vice president of African American Business Strategy James (“Jim”) Colon will retire this month.
Colon joined Toyota in 1980 and has held various positions within the company, regionally and at the headquarters in Torrance. Most recently, he was responsible for engaging African American business and media communities as well as building a network of Toyota associates and team members across regions to optimize relationships with external groups important to the African American community. Under his leadership, Toyota strengthened relationships with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation and National Association of Minority Automobile Dealers (NAMAD), among others. He also built the brand’s presence on historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) with the introduction of the Toyota Green Initiative – a program designed to promote sustainable living among the next generation.
“We thank Jim Colon for more than three decades of unwavering service to Toyota, our associates, communities and customers,” said Miles King, group vice president of human resources, Toyota Motor North America. “He made inroads at the regional level and continued to make an even greater impact on a national level. He will be missed.”
Colon brought a unique experience to his position at Toyota building on his extensive background in sales and in the field. His passion for the industry and giving back to younger professionals has made him a mentor to many, in and outside Toyota.
Colon’s last day will be March 18.
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