Southeast Toyota Distributors announced this week the new hire of a vice president of sales operations.

Appointed to the newly created role is Billy Hayes, former vice president of global zero emissions vehicles for Nissan in Japan.

As the VP of sales operations, Hayes will oversee the field sales and training departments.

Ed Sheehy, the president of Southeast Toyota Distributors, believes Hayes will contribute to the company’s expansion going into the future.

“One of the ways we can ensure Southeast Toyota’s long-term success is by continually developing and expanding the talent of our team,” Sheehy said. “Billy brings knowledge to our company that will help with our ongoing focus on growth and continuous improvement.”

Before entering the automotive business world, Hayes was a medic in the U.S. Army Reserves. He received his bachelor’s degree in industrial engineering and management as well as a Master of Business Administration from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Hayes also earned his bachelor of science degree in mathematics from Bates College.