HUNDREDS of specially invited guests converged on the Sunken Gardens at Hope Gardens, St Andrew last Friday to bid farewell to John Connell, Toyota Jamaica’s general manager.

The event, which also doubled as a customer appreciation event, saw guests ranging from Government officials, ambassadors, diplomats, bank executives, top cops, representatives of other dealerships.

“After six years at the helm of Toyota Jamaica, the time has come to say goodbye to you all,” Connell told the gathering.

Connell, who has led the Spanish Town Road-based dealership for the past six years, will take up a similar assignment in Zambia on July 1. He is being replaced by Tom Conner.

“I feel very proud of what we have achieved despite the challenges. I’m very happy I have created a solid foundation for my successor and I am confident that with your support, he will take Toyota Jamaica from strength to strength and maintain our position as the most successful and respected automotive business in Jamaica,” he said.

In speaking with Auto, the South Africa-born Connell said his greatest achievement has been “to bring the people together”.

“We have a great product and we have great people,” he said. “I’m going to Toyota Zambia to increase business there.”

Tom Conner, incoming managing director, lauded Connell for his commitment and dedication.

“John [Connell] is leaving Toyota Jamaica in a position where we currently sell 3.5 units more than our closest competition,” he said.

Howard Foster, sales and marketing manager, lauded the company’s customers for their loyality.

“With the earthquake and tsunami in March [last year] and the flood in Thailand in October there was widespread devastation. We’re still praying for our colleagues and friends in those countries. Those Acts of God caused delivery delays and shortages in vehicles and parts. However, 99 per cent ofour customers stayed with us,” he said.

Toyota’s top sales personnel were also awarded.

First prize went to Garcia Thomas, while Dorothy Buchanan and Andrew Campbell, were second and third, respectively.