Gulf States Toyota continues to expand its leadership team with the addition of a new senior vice president.

The company announced it has named Toyota Motor North America executive Jeff Buchanan as SVP of strategy, talent and culture, effective Sept. 3. He will be tasked with “driving innovation and enhancing GST’s tech-forward strategy” as well as optimizing operations and adapting processes to support its “strategic vision.”

For Gulf States Toyota – one of the world’s largest independent distributors of Toyota vehicles and parts, serving 156 Toyota dealerships in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Mississippi and Louisiana – the new SVP represents the latest move at the top leadership level, following the addition of SVP and chief operating officer Mike Brennan last month and president and general manager Eric Williamson in April.

“This is a decisive moment for GST as we leverage 50 years of success and set our sights on the future with a robust commitment to inventive solutions,” chairman Dan Friedkin said. “Jeff’s extensive experience and commitment to fostering a culture of innovation will be instrumental in helping us leverage new technologies and expand our capabilities.”

Buchanan most recently was Toyota North America’s vice president of marketing and communications. He previously served as VP of guest experience and retention and VP of sales operations for the Toyota Division.

He also has extensive field experience as vehicle operations manager for Central Atlantic Toyota and GM of Toyota’s Denver and New York regions.

“GST has a long history of leading the automotive industry, and I’m excited to join this dynamic organization as we chart our future course,” Buchanan said. “I’m energized by the opportunity to work with our leadership team and associates to implement new strategies, elevate our business and expand our organizational capabilities.”