Mazda Toyota Manufacturing in Huntsville has announced leadership changes as a key executive steps down and another returns to the facility.
Executive Vice President transition
Hironori (Hiro) Kagohashi, a founding member of MTM’s leadership team, is returning to Japan to become president and CEO of Chubu Centrair International Airport. Before his departure, he welcomed former MTM vice president and treasurer Masanao Watanabe as the new executive vice president.
A legacy at MTM
Kagohashi, who joined MTM’s executive team in 2018, has spent over 30 years with Toyota Motor Corporation, with roles at Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indiana and in global human resources. Widely regarded as the “father” of MTM, he expressed gratitude to the team and community, calling his time at the plant the biggest achievement of his career.
Watanabe’s return to MTM
Watanabe, who started with Toyota in 1996, has held roles in accounting, finance, and cost planning at Toyota Motor North America. His return to MTM as executive vice president is both a professional and personal milestone. “This is an opportunity to bring what I have learned back to MTM,” he said. Watanabe will report to MTM President Mitsunobu Mukaida, who took on the role in 2024 after founding President Masashi Aihara returned to Mazda Motor Corporation.
According to an online report, these leadership changes mark an important shift for MTM as it continues to grow in Huntsville.
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