Originally written by: KAZUAKI NAGATA
Link to the article: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/business/2026/02/06/companies/toyota-ceo-kenta-kon/
Toyota Motor Corporation has announced a significant leadership transition, appointing its Chief Financial Officer Kenta Kon as the company’s next President and Chief Executive Officer, effective April 1, 2026. This marks a strategic pivot at the helm of one of the world’s largest automakers as it prepares for future challenges in the global automotive industry.
Kenta Kon, 57, currently serves as Toyota’s Chief Financial Officer and has been a longstanding executive within the company since joining in 1991. Known for his deep financial expertise and close collaboration with Toyota leadership, Kon will take over from Koji Sato, who has been CEO since 2023. Sato will transition to the newly created roles of Vice Chairman and Chief Industry Officer, focusing on industry-wide strategy and collaboration beyond Toyota’s internal operations.
The leadership change is aimed at aligning Toyota’s executive structure with its evolving priorities. As automotive competition intensifies especially in electric and autonomous technologies Toyota’s board believes a CFO-led approach will sharpen the company’s financial discipline and operational agility. Kon will oversee day-to-day management while Sato’s new role will emphasize broader engagement with industry associations and strategic partnerships.
At a press briefing, Kon described his appointment as unexpected and emphasized the importance of collaboration with other Toyota executives as he charts the company’s future path. Meanwhile, Sato will leverage his position as chairman of the Japan Automobile Manufacturers Association and vice chairman of Keidanren to advance industry-wide initiatives.
This leadership transition comes at a pivotal moment for Toyota. Amid global economic pressures, changing trade dynamics, and heightened competition from new automotive players, the company has underscored the need for decisive and financially sound leadership. Although Toyota recently reported a drop in quarterly profit, its overall sales have shown resilience, and the strategic reshuffle aims to bolster long-term competitiveness.
Kenta Kon’s extensive background spanning finance, corporate strategy, and internal governance positions him to guide Toyota through its next phase of transformation. As CEO, he will be responsible for balancing financial performance with innovation in areas such as electrification and mobility solutions, helping Toyota navigate a rapidly changing industry landscape.
