Tag: Lexus

Singapore – Lexus Asia has announced their partnership with AR Asia Production to launch the gastronomy series ‘The Maverick Academy’ on Netflix. Said show is an innovative culinary competition that champions gastronomic talent in craft, and entrepreneurial spirit of aspiring chefs from across Asia. 

This marks the first partnership of its kind, where Lexus’ promise of creating experiences meets the artistry of culinary mastery, elevating luxury beyond vehicles. The show will air on November 8.

On the show, the contestants will be put to the ultimate test with exciting cooking challenges, fierce eliminations to showcase their cooking prowess, creativity, entrepreneurial potential and grit to survive The Maverick Academy. Each episode aims to uncover the sophistication of culinary craft that can transform a simple dish into an epicurean experience.

‘The Maverick Academy’ will be led by The Demon Chef Alvin Leung, and will see 8 contestants from the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar, and Hong Kong vie for the top spot in the competition. The winner of The Maverick Academy will be granted an invaluable opportunity as Chef Alvin’s apprentice and business partner.

Moreover, the show will also star chef entrepreneurs in Thailand as judges like Chef Tam who received the 2024 MICHELIN Guide Young Chef Award, and Chef Ton who runs one of the most popular kitchens in Bangkok, Le Du. Also joining the lineup is celebrity chef Michael Bonacini, co-founder of one of Canada’s leading fine dining restaurant companies Oliver & Bonacini Restaurants.

For Lexus, the brand has been underpinned by the dedication to craftsmanship and its human-centred mindset, and been driven by the commitment to provide amazing experiences. 

“The very essence of these values are mirrored in The Maverick Academy, which advocates the continuous refinement of skills, the boldness to defy culinary norms, and the determination to stay true to one’s cultural and inspirational roots,” the brand said in a press statement.

Lexus is the first automotive brand to partner with AR Asia Production for ‘The Maverick Academy.’ This collaboration is a unique opportunity to showcase how Lexus’ commitment to craft translates across different fields.

Preston Tan, vice president of Lexus Asia, said, “This partnership is a celebration of craftsmanship and excellence, and we’re excited to be a part of The Maverick Academy. The show aptly demonstrates the ethos of Lexus – the blending of passion, innovation, and exceptional customer-centric focus to create unforgettable elevated experiences.” 

He added, “Just as Lexus crafts exceptional experiences, the chefs are creating amazing sensory experiences.”

Sydney, Australia – John Pappas, formerly the chief marketing officer at Toyota Australia, has been appointed as the new chief executive at Lexus Australia, Toyota’s luxury vehicle division. He brings in to the company 25 years of automotive experience, including in a variety of senior international, national and regional roles.

Speaking about his appointment, Pappas said, “I am really excited to build on the strong momentum for Lexus, supported by stunning new models including our first all-electric vehicle, UX 300e, the upcoming all-new NX range and the next-generation flagship LX SUV.”

He has completed assignments in national sales, regional operations, parts supply and logistics, before spending two years at the group’s Asia-Pacific headquarters in Singapore.

During his stint at Toyota Australia over the past five years, he has applied his industry insights, business acumen and strategic thinking to leadership of the sales and then the marketing divisions.

He will be succeeding Scott Thompson, who joins mobility services brand KINTO in Europe as vice president operations for business development and technology.

Toyota Motor Corporation Australia President and CEO Matthew Callachor said Thompson’s four years at the helm of Lexus Australia had been characterised by an unrelenting focus on the total ownership experience.

“Scott’s passion for Lexus to have a deep understanding of the needs and lifestyles of our customers has resulted in the introduction of our top-tier owner-benefits program, Lexus Encore Platinum,” Callachor said.