Geely PH names new president and CEO

As we have revealed in an earlier story, Mikihisa Takayama will be leaving his position as Sojitz G Auto Philippines (SGAP) president and chief executive officer (CEO).

The announcement was made as Takayama, the man behind the success of putting the Geely Philippines in the top 10 automotive brands in the country, is set to fulfill a new role in SGAP’s mother company, Sojitz Corporation in Tokyo, Japan.

With the Geely brand re-introduced in the country in September 2019 through SGAP, it was Takayama’s leadership that brought in the Coolray, which is the main driver for the brand, along with the Azkarra and the Okavango (which was brought in amid the pandemic).

It was also during Takayama’s stint that SGAP enjoyed a consistent sales record through the Coolray, which held the top-selling position in various months in 2020 and 2021.

Based on the latest ranking, SGAP kept its number ninth position in the industry based on total industry sales.

Once Takayama leaves his post, his role will be taken over by SGAP’s current Executive Vice President Yosuke Nishi. Starting May 1, Nishi will be in command of the SGAP thrust.

To note, Nishi he has been working with Takayama since 2019, helping to  propel SGAP to its current positioning.

Nishi already worked in the local automotive scene as an executive from 2012 and 2018, admitted that he learned to love the country and the Filipinos.

“Since I am really fascinated by the Filipino culture, I wanted to come back to the Philippines. And during my short stay in Japan, I had been visiting the Philippines for the preparation of the establishment of SGAP. I have worked on getting an approval from Sojitz to establish the Geely business,” SGAP’s incoming chief said.

According to him, he has already “built a deep connection with the business,” even calling it his "baby."  

“Since SGAP, the Geely business in the Philippines (has been) my baby. I felt the need to grow it together with our customers and business partners. I want to assure everyone that SGAP/Geely Philippines can give the best services and experiences to the customers,” Nishi noted.

Photos from Sojitz G Auto Philippines

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