In a significant development, Akio Toyoda, Chairman of Toyota, has stepped down from his position as Chairman of the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA), a key role representing 14 automakers and 5.5 million employees. The announcement came during a routine press conference held by JAMA.
Successor announced: Masanori Katayama to take the helm
Masanori Katayama, Chairman of Isuzu Motors, is slated to succeed Akio Toyoda as the new Chairman of JAMA, effective January 1, 2024. This transition marks a pivotal moment as it will be the first time the head of a truck company assumes leadership of Japan’s automotive industry association. Both Toyoda and Katayama share the belief that the automotive sector will continue to play a crucial role in Japan.
Challenges and industry dynamics
The move comes at a time when Japan is facing a labor shortage, particularly with the anticipation of a new law imposing additional restrictions on the working hours of professional drivers. Katayama will be supported by Vice Chairmen, including CEOs such as Makoto Uchida from Nissan, Toshihiro Mibe from Honda, and Koji Sato from Toyota, along with other prominent figures from the bus, truck, and motorcycle sectors.
Toyoda’s legacy and transformative contributions
During Toyoda’s tenure as Chairman of JAMA, which began in 2018, he orchestrated the transformation of the biennial Tokyo Motor Show into the Japan Mobility Show. Departing from its traditional car-centric theme, the recently concluded Japan Mobility Show evolved into a comprehensive all-industry event, expanding its focus from private transportation to encompass various aspects of mobility.
Akio Toyoda holds the distinction of being the only figure to have guided Japan’s automotive industry across three consecutive two-year terms, assuming leadership in 2012, 2018, and 2022. In the press conference, Toyoda clarified that while stepping down from his role as Chairman, he is not retiring from the automotive industry. Known by the moniker “Morizo,” Toyoda will continue to be a part of the automotive sector and retain his position as Toyota’s master driver.
The leadership transition at JAMA marks a significant juncture for Japan’s automotive industry, and industry observers will be keenly watching how the new leadership navigates the challenges and opportunities in the evolving landscape of the Japanese automotive sector.