Toronto, Ontario -- Mazda Canada has announced Nova Scotian Amy Fleming as its next president and chief executive officer, with the leadership transition set to take place by fall of this year.
The change follows the planned retirement of current president and CEO David Klan, who is stepping down on September 30 after 33 years with the company.
“It’s an incredible honour to lead Mazda Canada at such a pivotal time in our industry,” said Fleming, in a press release from the company. “Under Dave’s leadership, we’ve built a strong foundation for success, and I’m committed to continuing to build on that momentum with our talented team and passionate retailers across the country.”
Fleming, who is currently Mazda Canada’s chief operating officer and senior director, will be the first woman to lead the company’s Canadian operations since its founding. Her appointment places her among a small but growing number of women who have held top executive roles at Canadian arms of major automakers.
In recent years, several global brands have appointed women to lead their Canadian operations. General Motors Canada named Marissa West as president and managing director in 2022, while Ford Motor Company has had multiple female leaders in Canada, beginning with Bobbie Gaunt in 1997. Mercedes-Benz Canada also named Eva Wiese president and CEO in 2021.
Originally from Antigonish, N.S., Fleming got her start working at a local dealership. After graduation, she continued in the automotive field in Ontario, working in both retail and corporate roles before joining Mazda Canada in 2006. She has since held executive responsibilities across sales, fixed operations, marketing and customer experience, and was promoted to chief operating officer in 2023.
Klan, who began his career with Mazda in 1992, held executive positions in the United States and Japan before returning to Canada in 2009. He became president and CEO of Mazda Canada in 2019. During his six years in charge, the company reported record business performance and received multiple industry awards, including high marks for dealer satisfaction and employer reputation.
“Every part of my journey at Mazda has been deeply rewarding, and it’s been a pleasure working with the best teams in the business,” said Klan in the release.
