GWM poaches ex-Toyota executive to market Haval hybrids and Ora EVs in ASEAN

Great Wall Motors (GWM) has appointed Vudhigorn Suriyachantananont as the Vice President of Marketing Asean, effective from 1-June 2023.

In his new role, Vudhigorn will be instrumental in growing Great Wall Motor's business in Thailand and the ASEAN region. He will be responsible for strategic marketing, brand awareness planning, introducing new products to the market, and driving sales. 

"I am deeply honored and excited to join GWM’s dynamic team and play a role in the company's expansion in the ASEAN market as I also see many opportunities for neighbouring markets like Thailand and Malaysia, where GWM has positioned itself as a frontrunner in the automotive industry, showcasing cutting-edge technologies and a clear strategic business vision.

I am ready to utilise my marketing expertise and work alongside the talented marketing team to further elevate the brand's image, expand the customer base, and drive remarkable success for GWM in Thailand, Malaysia and the ASEAN region,” said Vudhigorn.

Also read: Review: Coming to fight the X70, the 2023 Haval H6 Hybrid leaves positive first impressions

Prior to joining Great Wall Motors, Vudhigorn served as the Executive Vice President of Toyota Motor Thailand, where he played a key role in shaping the marketing strategy for the Thai market. 

Having started his career at Toyota Motor Thailand after graduating in mechanical engineering in 1981, Mr. Vutikorn specialised in marketing, sales, and after-sales service. Throughout his nearly 40-year career, he demonstrated expertise in strategic knowledge, driving growth, maintaining sales, and sustaining Toyota's market leadership.

“Drawing upon my expertise in strategic marketing planning and business expansion, I am committed to contributing to the development and launch of GWM’s product lineup that showcases its potential and innovative prowess to customers across the ASEAN region.

Together with the talented marketing team across borders, we will leverage customer insights, leverage digital technologies, and implement customer-centric campaigns to drive brand awareness, increase market share, and create memorable experiences for our valued customers. I am dedicated to reinforcing GWM’s position as a trusted and preferred electric vehicle brand in Thailand, Malaysia and the wider ASEAN market,” he stressed.

GWM has been enjoying a renaissance in the country recently, as their Haval H6 series, Jolion, and Ora Good Cat have been selling well. Total sales in 2022 reached 11,616 units, a 214% increase compared to 2021. In 2023, Great Wall Motors plans to launch at least three new models in the coming years.

Meanwhile, earlier this year Great Wall Motors unveiled the "One GWM" strategy for its overseas operations, emphasising its leadership in electric vehicles and aiming to enhance its brand image on the global stage. The strategy encompasses effective marketing implementation, communication, and building a strong global network of partners.

Also read: Review: Despite some oddities, the GWM Cannon is shaping up to be a promising pick-up truck in Malaysia