MONTVALE, N.J. — Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) announced today the promotion of Michael Slagter to the newly created position of senior vice president, sales, effective immediately reporting to MBUSA’s president and CEO, Steve Cannon. In this position, Slagter has overall responsibility for sales, volume planning and distribution operations for Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles. As of July 1, 2011, he also has overall responsibility for the smart brand in the United States. Previously, Slagter was vice president, sales, for Mercedes-Benz USA.

A 37-year veteran of the automotive industry, Slagter began his career at MBUSA in 2004 as vice president of sales, west, based out of the company’s regional office in Los Angeles where he was responsible for all sales, service, marketing and operations for the company’s western region. Before joining MBUSA, Slagter worked with the Lexus brand for 11 years beginning in 1990 in the sales, marketing, franchise and pre-owned areas.  He subsequently held management positions with Lexus at retail and on the agency side, the latter in 2002 as retail division director at Saatchi & Saatchi Advertising in Torrance, Calif., where he oversaw all Toyota Dealer Association advertising and sales operations for the U.S. market.

Before Lexus, Slagter worked for the Ford Motor Company for 14 years. Originally from Evansville, Indiana, Slagter holds an MBA degree from the University of Evansville and a bachelor of science degree in marketing from Indiana University.

About Mercedes-Benz USA

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), headquartered in Montvale, New Jersey, is responsible for the distribution, marketing and customer service for all Mercedes-Benz and Maybach products in the United States.  MBUSA offers drivers the most diverse line-up in the luxury segment with 12 model lines ranging from the sporty C-Class to the flagship S-Class sedans and the SLS AMG supercar.

MBUSA is also responsible for the distribution, marketing and customer service of Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Vans, and smart products in the U.S.  More information on MBUSA and its products can be found at www.mbusa.com and www.mbsprinterusa.com. For full bios and photos visit the MBUSA Media Site, www.media.mbusa.com.