After a distinguished career spanning more than 36 years, Nissan Guam General Manager Philippe Gerling has announced his retirement, according to Nissan Guam President & CEO Van Shelly.
“As someone who has had the privilege of working alongside Philippe for nearly his entire career with Nissan, I can say without reservation that he has demonstrated tremendous integrity, leadership and compassion throughout his tenure,” said Shelly. “He will be greatly missed, and we wish him well as he begins this new chapter.”
Gerling was originally hired as Business Manager on Feb. 13, 1984, when the dealership was owned by Jones & Guerrero Co., Inc., and his job duties included writing scripts for radio and television spots and overseeing print ad layouts. Later, after the dealership was purchased by Nissan Motor Corp. Ltd., he was promoted to Operations Manager in 1991 and again to his current position as General Manager in 1996.
“More than half my life has been spent at Nissan Guam,” said Gerling. “Thank you to Nissan Guam that allowed me to have a rich professional experience in your midst. I am deeply grateful for the professional experience gained with our team and the improvements we continue to build upon among our staff and management.”
Arnel Bonto, who currently serves as Nissan Guam’s controller, will assume the role of general manager upon Gerling’s departure.
“I want to thank Mr. Gerling for his mentorship and trust, and the best way I see to do that is to continue his legacy of making Nissan the best company it could be,” said Bonto. “Thirty-six years of service is a monumental act to follow, but if I can do half of what he’s accomplished, I’ll consider myself a success. Beyond being my boss, Mr. Gerling was also a dear friend. I will miss the times we would converse on any topic, from work to life and everything in between.”
While Gerling and his wife have planned a stateside move later this year, he will continue to offer his expertise as a consultant for Nissan Guam over the next year.
“I want to wish my successor, Arnel, nothing less but success,” said Gerling. “I will forever be grateful for the Guam community’s hospitality, friendliness and true ‘familia’ spirit. Its diversity has enriched my life beyond expectation.”
