Kono to succeed Wakabayashi as Isuzu Motors India Deputy MD

Japanese automaker Isuzu today announced a senior management change in its Indian operations with Hitoshi Kono to succeed Shigeru Wakabayashi as deputy managing director of Isuzu Motors India.

The change will be with effect from February 14 and Wakabayashi will assume the role of Division COO, Isuzu Business Division, Mitsubishi Corporation, Japan, the company said in a statement.

Kono is currently General Manager, Isuzu Asia Department at Isuzu Business Division.

Wakabayashi has been instrumental in setting up Isuzu's operations in 2012 in India and building the brand in the country, including setting up a new manufacturing plant in Andhra Pradesh. The company has since launched ISUZU D-MAX pick-up and MU-7 SUV.

Isuzu Motors India Managing Director Naohiro Yamaguchi said, "Wakabayashi has played an important role in the progress of the company. Under his guidance, ISUZU has achieved significant milestones across various aspects of the business."

Kono has an experience of over three decades across various global markets. He was responsible for ISUZU Asia Department at Mitsubishi Corporation, Japan, in his earlier role. He was instrumental in establishing ISUZU UTE Australia in 2008 to import and distribute the ISUZU D-MAX in Australia.