Meet Lionel Major: The Service Advisor Who Turns Car Troubles into Smiles

Lionel Major, a service advisor at Cannon Toyota of Vicksburg, was recently honored through the "You Caught My Eye" program by the Vicksburg-Warren Chamber of Commerce. This initiative allows the public to nominate individuals who deliver exceptional customer service at local businesses.

Originally from New Orleans, Major moved to Vicksburg after Hurricane Katrina. With a passion for cars that spans over 50 years, he has been with Cannon Toyota for 15 years. For Major, working at a car dealership is the perfect blend of his love for automobiles and his love for people.

“Favorite part about my job? People. I love people. I love being around people, and I always have. I love being able to help people with their problems. I’m not successful all the time, but I try very hard at it.”

Pablo Diaz, president and CEO of the Vicksburg Warren Partnership, emphasized that the program celebrates those who go above and beyond to serve the community. “These individuals create positive experiences that reflect the welcoming nature of our city and demonstrate the positive impact that outstanding customer service can have on others.”

Nick Hearn, Fixed Operations Director at Cannon Toyota, has worked with Major for 13 years. He notes that Major is consistently a top performer, ranking in the top 5% each month. “He’s very thorough with his job. He’s developed a process, and the customer comes first. He’s always out with the customers explaining what they need, and that’s how he’s built his customer base over the years—just being transparent.”

Major was surprised by the honor but insisted on including his coworkers, believing the job is a team effort. “I realize this is a very difficult job. Without my coworkers, it would be even more difficult. So when they took my picture, I made them take their picture too.”