Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) today announces the appointment of Michael Helgesen as West-Central Regional Vice President. With over 35 years of experience in automotive leadership, franchise development, and operational activities, Helgesen brings a wealth of expertise to MMNA’s leadership team. In this role, he will focus on strengthening dealer partner relationships and supporting the continued success of MMNA’s dealer network.
“We are thrilled to welcome Mike Helgesen to the MMNA team,” said Mark Chaffin, President and Chief Executive Officer. “His extensive background and proven track record will be invaluable as we continue to grow our dealer network and enhance Mitsubishi Motors’ presence in the West-Central region. With our eyes clearly on the future, as defined by our Momentum 2030 business plan, strengthening and building our network into new markets will be a key part of Mike’s focus.”
Helgesen’s career spans a variety of leadership roles across the automotive industry, including retail and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) regional and headquarters roles. He also has worked with a variety of suppliers, focusing on the application of technology at retail.
“As I step into this role, my focus will be on building strong relationships with our dealer partners and ensuring their success within the Mitsubishi ecosystem,” said Helgesen. “I look forward to meeting with our dealer partners, understanding their goals and challenges, and working together to achieve outstanding results.”
Before joining MMNA, Helgesen served as Vice President of Sales and Business Development at AutoFi for almost five years, overseeing the strategic expansion of the company’s SaaS operations. Prior to AutoFi, Helgesen spent more than three years at Cox Automotive, where he held various senior leadership roles. As Senior Divisional Manager for Enterprise Partnerships, he led teams that supported OEMs and dealer groups nationwide, improving retail performance and digital retail applications.
Helgesen’s career also includes more than 16 years at Kia Motors America, where he advanced to Director of Central Region Operations.
ABOUT MITSUBISHI MOTORS NORTH AMERICA, INC.
Through a network of approximately 330 dealer partners across the United States, Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) is responsible for the sales, marketing, and customer service of Mitsubishi Motors vehicles in the U.S. MMNA’s recently announced five-year business plan – “Momentum 2030” – outlines the brand’s mid-term intentions for product and business transformation. MMNA will expand and refresh its vehicle lineup in the U.S. with one new or completely refreshed model to debut each year between now and 2030. Powered by a selection of advanced-technology internal combustion engines, hybrids, plug-in hybrids, and battery electrics, the product line will nearly double from today’s four vehicles. Momentum 2030 also includes a vision for a modernized retail sales model and plans for network expansion and sales growth.
MMNA has its headquarters in Franklin, Tennessee, as well as corporate operations in California, Georgia, Michigan, and New Jersey.
