(Reuters) - Mercedes-Benz said on Tuesday it has appointed Jason Hoff to the newly created role of North America CEO, effective May 1 as the German maker looks to strengthen its focus on the U.S., its second-largest market.

Hoff, currently Head of Quality for Mercedes-Benz Cars & Vans, will be responsible for the overall strategic direction of the German luxury carmaker in the U.S.

The company, which exports high-end vehicles and sedans to the U.S. from Europe, said it is consolidating its research and development, sales and marketing activities in the U.S. under the new role.

Mercedes, which operates a global SUV manufacturing hub in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, reported strong U.S. sales last year, with 324,500 passenger cars and 49,600 vans sold.

"This new position will ensure continued growth and increased synergies in the U.S. by bundling our activities and subsidiaries under one roof," said Ola Kaellenius, Mercedes-Benz Group AG's CEO.

Mercedes-Benz CFO Harald Wilhelm said last month the carmaker would localize more production at its Tuscaloosa plant to shield itself from potential tariffs.

A company spokesperson declined to comment on how the company's U.S. operations would change under Hoff's leadership.