Mercedes-Benz USA has appointed Kristy MacGregor director of vehicle logistics and customs operations following the departure of Rory Hepner.
Following the news in September that Rory Hepner has retired from her role as director of vehicle logistics and customs operations at Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA, the carmaker has confirmed that Kristy MacGregor has stepped into the role.
MacGregor moves from her position as department manager of field sales operations for commercial vehicles at the company, a role she has held for the last 12 years. In that role she was responsible for developing a strategic sales and network, supported by strong dealer relationships, for the Mercedes-Benz Truck and Freightliner brands.
“In my new role as director of vehicle logistics and customs for Mercedes-Benz USA, I look forward to leveraging advanced technologies like AI and automation to enhance accuracy and free up time for strategic innovation,” MacGregor told Automotive Logistics. “I am eager to simplify processes, cut inefficiencies, and create systems that work smoothly and predictably. Most of all, I aim to foster a high-performance culture by empowering teams with the tools and support they need to excel, creating an environment built on collaboration, accountability, and recognition.”
MacGregor started out as a dealer network specialist in 1999 in Montvale, New Jersey. Over her distinguished 24-year career, she has held various operational and leadership positions, including serving as executive support manager to the CEO. In 2012, MacGregor advanced to department manager of field sales operations in Commercial Vans, overseeing sales and aftersales operations. Then in 2017, she moved to Retail Vehicle Distribution, where she managed wholesale forecasting, inventory management and a small call centre dedicated to dealer support.
In 2021 she moved to Vehicle Operations and Customs, managing the export of vehicles produced at the Mercedes-Benz US International (MBUSI) plant in Tuscaloosa to 94 countries and serving as a liaison between the carmaker’s vehicle preparation centres (VPCs) and Quality Management at Mercedes-Benz Group. In 2022, MacGregor expanded her responsibilities to include Customs and Compliance, overseeing the import of finished vehicles and parts, as well as managing the Duty Draw Programme.
Rory Hepner announced her retirement after 33 years with MBUSA, effective September 11, 2024. One of her most significant accomplishments was the transformation of MBUSA’s sales system. She spearheaded the launch and stabilisation of the replacement VOIS sales system. She also introduced the Duty Drawback Programme, the development of the West Coast Campus in Long Beach, California, and the establishment of MBUSA’s Domestic Marshalling Yard in Vance, Alabama.
No comments yet