Kershaw Picked to Head Nissan Sales in U.S.

Nissan Motor Co. has named David Kershaw as vice president of sales for North America, effective Sept.

In the new job, Kershaw will be responsible for field sales, distribution, fleet and certified pre-owned sales. The former head of the company’s sales operations in the southeastern U.S. will succeed Billy Hayes, who is leaving at the end of this week after three years as U.S. sales chief.

Kershaw will be introduced to Nissan dealers tomorrow in Chicago when they convene for their annual brand meeting. Automotive News says one of his top missions will be to further Hayes’ efforts to improve relations between Nissan’s retailers and the factory.

The company’s U.S. dealers are coping with narrowing profits as sales slide, in part because of Nissan’s determination to wean itself from low-margin fleet sales. Kershaw suggests they also want a more consistent marketing plan from Nissan.

An aging lineup also is a source of complaint from Nissan dealers. The company says it intends to refresh 70% of its lineup in the American market over the next 20 months.