Kawasaki's Karen Howard Promoted To National Sales Manager, Dealer Channel

Veteran KMC employee takes on a new role as company growth continues.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich., (July, 2008) - Karen Howard, a 16-year veteran of Kawasaki Engines and Power Products Division, has been promoted to national sales manager, dealer channel, from her position as manager, marketing and sales services. The promotion was announced in conjunction with the company’s annual District Managers Meeting.

“Howard’s talents and consistent record of success over the course of many years prepared her for this challenge,” said Rodger Howe, director of dealer channel sales and marketing.

The new sales manager will be developing and implementing strategic sales and marketing plans to increase profitability and improve dealer traffic, as well as manage the district manager sales force, inclusive of recruitment and training. She will ensure the achievement of wholesale sales objectives, support implementation of marketing programs, and develop strategic business relationships. Howard will also be responsible for new dealer set-ups, establishing dealer requirements and standards, and developing and implementing sales training programs.

According to Howe, the Davenport College graduate will support Kawasaki’s national regional and local public relations efforts and consumer events, areas of company activity with which she has prior involvement.

“We are familiar with Karen’s many strengths and her knowledge of both Kawasaki and our industry will be an invaluable asset in this new position,” said Howe.

Howard held a broad range of responsibilities in her prior post, including managing all marketing, advertising and public relations efforts, researching and recommending specific trade show involvement and being responsible for all printed materials. She also oversaw customer service for the engine division’s dealer network and was responsible for management of Canadian distributor sales and logistical coordination as well as inventory and importation coordination of the division’s whole goods for sales into the U.S., Canada and South America.

Kawasaki Engines and Power Products, a division of Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A., distributes gasoline engines and professional handheld power products for landscape, industrial and consumer markets. The division is headquartered in Grand Rapids, MI, and services customers through its network of over 8,000 independent dealers throughout the United States and Canada. For more information on the complete line of Kawasaki engines and power products, visit www.kawpower.com or call 1-800-433-5640.