#retirements

Captain of industry John Mendel is retiring as the executive vice president of American Honda’s sales division this April, following ten years of service to the company. Mendel is probably best-known for ensuring that Honda and Acura’s marketing and sales focus remained on North America’s retail markets, not fleets.

Also retiring this spring is Honda Canada’s current president and 42-year company veteran, Jerry Chenkin. Filling the vacuum created in Chenkin’s absence is Dave Gardner, currently senior vice president and future president. Gardner will assume the role of president and provide direct oversight for the automotive and motorcycle divisions, power equipment, ATV, and small engine businesses.

Not too long ago, designer Luc Donckerwolke abruptly quit Bentley for reasons still unknown. Now, he’ll be designing for Hyundai.

Come next year, General Motors will have a new general counsel, as Michael Millikin has decided to call it a day.

Outgoing Ford CEO Alan Mullaly may be heading out the door, but he does plan to help his successor when needed.