Kazuo Hirai

In a recent press release, Sony has announced a few changes to its management structure. CEO Kazuo Hirai, who has been in the top seat for six years, will be replaced by current CFO Kenichiro Yoshida. Kaz will instead adopt the roles of Director and Chairman. These changes are effective from 1st April 2018.

Hirai-san led the Japanese giant out of a dark period, focusing on areas of the business that were doing well, and removing under-performing and superfluous products. As CEO, he turned Sony's fortunes around, and the company is in a much better place than it was in 2012.

"As the company approaches a crucial juncture, when we will embark on a new mid-range plan, I consider this to be the ideal time to pass the baton of leadership to new management, for the future of Sony and also for myself to embark on a new chapter in my life," Hirai-san says. He speaks highly of his successor, too: "I believe [Kenichiro Yoshida] possesses the breadth of experience and perspective, as well as the unwavering leadership qualities required to manage Sony’s diverse array of businesses, and as such is the ideal person to drive the company forward into the future."

Yoshida-san added, "I am very grateful to Kazuo Hirai and the Sony Board for their trust and confidence in appointing me as Sony President and CEO, and at the same time feel a great sense of responsibility in taking on this vitally important role. Together with the outstanding talent we have across the Sony Group, I will aim to build on the business foundations established by Mr. Hirai, and execute further reform measures that enhance our competitiveness as a global enterprise, and enable us to realize long-term profit growth."

You can read the full release through here.

What do you make of these changes? What's your favourite Kaz moment? Comment below and let us know.

[source sony.net, via cnet.com]