Proton presents new sales GM

Malaysian importer Proton has announced the appointment of long-term employee Billy Falconer as General Manager, Sales and Operations, following the departure of Chris Locantro earlier in the year.

Falconer, who joined Proton Cars Australia in 1997 as warranty manager, was the company's service manager prior to taking on his additional new role this week.

While he will continue to oversee service, parts, warranty, technical and compliance operations, the day to day management of service, parts and warranty will be handed to national service manager Con Giannis and national parts manager Glen Beattie.

Proton Cars Australia managing director John Startari said Billy Falconer's appointment brings to the position someone with a "vast knowledge of Proton both in Australia and Malaysia and who understands the long term goals the company is pursuing."

"His excellent rapport with dealers and sales personnel is a major benefit as Proton continues its network expansion particularly in major markets such as Sydney," he added.

Proton sales are currently running at about 2000 vehicles a year and are on track to exceed those of 2005, its best year recently, when it sold 2164 vehicles -- although a long way from the 3184 vehicles sold in 1998. Star performers so far this year are the Jumbuck ute (779), Savvy light car (733) and Gen 2 small car (475).

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