HOW long is eight seasons? Very long? Yes, if it’s been a rough ride. But how about treating eight seasons as very short? Yes, if it’s been a joy ride.
Joy ride it was for Daniel M. Isla, a.k.a. DMI, in the eight seasons that he was president of Lexus Manila Inc.
For, sadly, his superlative stint at Lexus will end by the end of 2016.
I will not be surprised if practically everyone shed a tear or two when the announcement of his departure came—from his general staff down to the coffee-maker in bow tie. Include the super-efficient bunch of security personnel and, well, yes, the janitors, too.
Since DMI began as Lexus president in the company’s momentous birth in 2009, he would quickly be known in the car industry as Sir John, in fond reference to John Lennon, his idol. Lennon was, of course, the Chief Beatle. Humbly, I gave him that moniker—myself also being a Beatlemaniac. It stuck to DMI like a badge of honor—fittingly.
To those familiar with the workings within the Lexus family, time flew with the speed of sound under Sir John’s stewardship.
With him at the helm, everything was work with a cemetery-silent, gilded glide. Each move at Lexus was razor-sharp, yes, but bathed both in calculatedly cool and impeccably immaculate mien.
Sir John is leaving in keeping with company policy.
You are the best of the best but if you hit 60, let go.
That has been the Toyota way for decades—Lexus being Toyota’s luxury-car segment that went into global orbit in smashing success in the 1980s, starting in America.
I was lucky enough to have watched Sir John work from my ringside seat since Day One.
Sir John had made himself so well-loved by his staff because his management style—the gentlest of all—was cult-like. They heeded him every step of the way, because he personified perfection with glorified grace.
He didn’t instill discipline by acting like the typical drillmaster. His quiet demeanor of gliding, slithering, mild-mannered way of work ethics rubbed on everyone. He was demigod, almost.
For those eight seasons that Sir John had been at the helm, it was a magical mystery tour for all, to say the least.
It’s just so sad that all things must end, including the good ones—such as Sir John’s enviable perch at Lexus.
At times, indeed, life is also a sorrowful mystery that, with Sir John saying hello good-bye, an era so glorious has ended.
Is George Harrison’s guitar weeping? Gently?
The following is Sir John’s “letter of resignation” to me:
“12 December 2016
“Dear SP [Note: SP is Sir Paul, in reference to Sir Paul McCartney, the Handsome Beatle],
“As you already know, I will be retiring as President of Lexus Manila Inc. by the end of the year.
“I would like to sincerely thank you for your support in making Lexus the strong brand that it is today. Eight years ago, we were uncertain about how the market will accept a Japanese-made luxury car. Today it gives me pride when I see more and more Lexus vehicles on the road. A clear sign we have made a mark in the Philippines automotive luxury market.
“The achievements that Lexus had made would not have been possible were it not for your encouraging words and your support. You have always believed in us, Sir Paul. Your support fueled our energy, and I am grateful.
“There will still be opportunities for us to get together again, as I shall remain to be part of Lexus Manila on a consultancy basis.
“Meanwhile, I trust that you will continue to support Lexus under the management of Mr. Raymond Rodriguez, the new president of LMI.
“Thank you very much for your friendship.
“Merry Christmas and may you be abundantly blessed in the coming year ahead.
“Isang manipis…. Cheers!
Daniel M. Isla
Lexus Manila Inc.”
The following is the off-the-cuff from the always very accommodating Raymond T. Rodriguez, Sir John’s successor at Lexus:
“Hi Al,
“Here are my thoughts.
“My new assignment as the president of LMI will be a big challenge, especially for 2017, due to some factors that may affect sales of our cars.
“Lexus, however, will continue to grow due to the high level of Customer Experience given by its Lexus Associates.
“Since its introduction in 2009, Lexus has grown significantly and is one of the major players in the Luxury Car market. I am looking forward to my new assignment and ready to take on the challenges.
“Mr. Isla has been instrumental in the success of Lexus in the Philippines. He has made the dealership a home for our Lexus Associates, and most especially to our valued customers.
“He has created a strong team and a happy culture where associates are inspired and motivated to work.
“He never fails to delight our customers and has been a strong advocate for Customer Satisfaction.
Thank you very much.”
Sir John’s are big shoes to fill. But knowing Raymond, he will be up to the task.
PEE STOP Other motoring movements include JP Orbeta, from Volkswagen top gun now back to Ayala’s head office, and Arnel Doria, who has also left Volkswagen for a radio stint…. Merry Christmas!