Prior to joining Mercedes-Benz Malaysia, Jopp served as the Vice-President of Sales and Marketing in India (All photos: Mercedes-Benz)
Congratulations on your appointment as the new head of sales and marketing at Mercedes-Benz Cars, Malaysia and SEA II. What is your strategy for the first 100 days?
In today’s fast-paced environment, 100 days seem to fly by at the speed of light. I would primarily be focusing on getting to know my MBM (Mercedes-Benz Malaysia) family — teams, colleagues and our dealer network, as well as getting to know the processes, works and how the business is run. This would lay the foundations for making strategic decisions across the sales and marketing segment.
What are your short and long-term goals?
Whether it is a short or long-term goal, it would be to continuously increase MBM’s customer satisfaction, continue brand building and maintain its No 1 luxury lifestyle brand position in Malaysia and SEA II. We make our models stand out in terms of quality and appearance, which ultimately leads to driving pleasure.
What is your go-to method to keep calm when chaos strikes on the office front?
My previous experience and roles in the various markets has definitely trained me well in this aspect. I have been through many challenging phases, so, luckily by nature I am a calm guy and it takes a lot to push me out of balance. I’ve had an ex-boss call me a “tower of strength” in turbulent times. An apt name too considering my height! (I am 195cm tall.)
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What has been the most significant or memorable moment in your career?
I would have to say working with the team in India, especially the farewell party that they organised for me. India was the first market outside Germany that my career had taken me to and never could I be more grateful for the lovely team and our amazing milestones. I look forward to making even more significant ones throughout my career and for now, in Malaysia.
Can you tell me about some of the best business lessons you have learnt so far?
Analyse problems from a 360° angle. Then, take a balanced view and a decisive action. Let the rest take its course.
What do you like most about Mercedes-Benz?
It can’t get more obvious than the passion of the people and the products. Looking at the way the brand has evolved and is still evolving, it is truly a testament of our people living up to be “the best”.
What are some of your favourite ways to unwind after work?
Definitely spending time with my family. We play golf together and travel quite a bit.
What book are you reading at the moment?
Malaysian customs and etiquette. Ha-ha. But seriously though, it is going to help a lot.
This article first appeared on July 29, 2019 in The Edge Malaysia.
