John Lafalaise Named President of U-Haul Company of Coastal South Carolina

SAVANNAH, Ga., May 29, 2009 -- The U-Haul Company of Coastal South Carolina today announced the promotion of John Lafalaise to president. Lafalaise brings more than 13 years of U-Haul experience to his new position, where he will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the company, including truck, trailer and storage rentals.

"John has worked his way up through the ranks, serving the customer at every level," affirmed Area District Vice President (ADVP) Ray Smith. "His dedication to the company has earned him this promotion as president. John will be certain to continue to serve the people in Georgia and South Carolina with same exemplary service that he has provided to the company."

Lafalaise began his U-Haul career in February 1996 as a customer service representative (CSR) for the Palm Beach U-Haul Center. In December 1997, he was promoted to asst. general manager (Asst. GM) of U-Haul Center Belvedere and was promoted to general manager (GM) in May 1998. Lafalaise held the position of GM for more than five years and also oversaw the operations at the Lake Park U-Haul Center and the Palm Beach U-Haul Center. In February 2004, Lafalaise transferred to U-Haul Company of Eastern Florida, where he held the position of area field manager (AFM). In September 2006, he transferred to U-Haul Company of Raleigh, where he held a number of positions, including field relief manager (FRM). Lafalaise attended Barry University in Miami, Florida, where he obtained a bachelor of science degree in information technology, with a focus on networking. Today, President Lafalaise will oversee U-Haul operations for the coastal areas of South Carolina and Georgia.

"I am committed to providing great customer service, using all of the superior U-Haul products and programs that have been developed over the past 64 years," Lafalaise stated. "I will lead transparently and build upon the strength of every employee by fostering a teamwork approach. I will motivate my team members to always excel and do their best, and I will continue to maintain the open-door policy that has been instilled within the U-Haul organization."