Nissan appoints new CEO as Ghosn shifts focus to alliance growth

Nissan has announced this week that Hiroto Saikawa, the company's co-CEO and representative director, will assume the role of CEO from April 1.

Carlos Ghosn, current CEO of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance, has decided to step down from the lead role at Nissan to focus his attention on the expansion and stewardship of the Alliance. He will continue to serve as Nissan's Chairman of the Board of Directors.

"I am confident that the management team I have developed at Nissan over the past 18 years has the talent and experience to meet the company's operational and strategic goals," said Ghosn.

"Having recently taken on new responsibilities at Mitsubishi Motors, and taking into consideration the upcoming Nissan general shareholders meeting, I have decided that the time is right for Hiroto Saikawa to succeed me as Nissan's CEO."

"As Nissan's Chairman, I will continue to supervise and guide the company, both independently and within the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance," he added.

Saikawa first joined Nissan in 1977, and has served in numerous managerial positions since 1999 - including chairman of the management committees of the Americas and Europe, along with executive vice president of purchasing - while also being the current chairman of the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association (JAMA).

"I would like to thank Mr. Ghosn and the Nissan board for entrusting me with this new responsibility," said Saikawa.

"Under Mr. Ghosn's chairmanship and with the support of the excellent leadership team that has been built at Nissan, my focus will be delivering our company's continued performance and development and on continuing Nissan's contribution to the success of the Alliance."

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