AMA Pro Racing, the leading sanctioning body for motorcycle sport in the United States, has appointed Rod J. Lopusnak as Director of Sales. Lopusnak will be based in AMA Pro Racing's newly relocated West Coast office and will be responsible for managing existing sponsor relationships and the continued development of new commercial opportunities.
Lopusnak leaves American Suzuki Motor Corporation where he was ATV and Motorcycle Marketing Manager. Lopusnak will report directly to AMA Pro Racing Vice President of Commercial Development, John Farris, and assumes his new responsibilities immediately.
"Rod brings a strong industry background and we're pleased that he's joined us," said AMA Pro Racing CEO Scott Hollingsworth. "Rod's experience will enable him to play a vital role in the important area of commercial development within AMA Pro Racing."
Hollingsworth noted that the hiring of Lopusnak is consistent with AMA Pro Racing's ongoing personnel strategy. "Our goal has been to hire high-level industry talent for key positions. Additionally, we want to continue to expand our West Coast office and California presence. The addition of Rod accomplishes both of those objectives. His background at the retail, regional and OEM level of sales and marketing has given him a keen insight into the commercial aspects of the motorcycle and racing industries."
After several year's experience in retail motorcycle sales Lopusnak joined Suzuki in 1997 and has held positions in both the marketing and sales departments. His first position was as District Sales Manager which quickly lead to a promotion to Assistant Regional Sales Manager. In April of 2000 Lopusnak moved to Suzuki's corporate headquarters in Southern California to become ATV Marketing Manager. Motorcycles were added to his area of responsibility in January of 2004.
"I'm excited about this new opportunity," said Lopusnak. "AMA Pro Racing properties have a great deal to offer and I'm looking forward to getting out in the marketplace and showing how commercially viable motorcycle racing can be. I'll be looking to partner our racing sponsorship packages with companies eager to reach a targeted, core demographic. Motorcycle racing, the original 'action sport' is hot right now and I'll be aggressively targeting companies wanting to tap into this category."
Lopusnak can be reached at 714-986-9030 or at rlopusnak@amaproracing.com.
Source: AMA Pro Racing