Isuzu Motors India Announces Leadership Change, Takeshi Hirano Becomes New Deputy Managing Director

Key Highlights

• Takeshi Hirano was appointed Deputy Managing Director of Isuzu Motors India.

• Toru Kishimoto moves to a new role at Isuzu Motors Limited in Japan.

• Hirano brings over 20 years of global distribution and marketing experience.

• Isuzu Motors India operates a plant at Sri City and nearly 100 dealerships.

• The company was India’s top commercial vehicle exporter in FY2024-25.

Isuzu Motors India has announced a major leadership change in March 2026. The company has appointed Takeshi Hirano as its new Deputy Managing Director. He replaces Toru Kishimoto, who will now take up a new assignment at the parent company, Isuzu Motors Limited, in Japan.

The leadership transition is part of the company’s ongoing business strategy as it continues to strengthen its operations in India and global export markets.

Experienced Leader Returns to India

Before joining IMI in his new role, Takeshi Hirano was working at Mitsubishi Corporation in Japan within the Isuzu business division. He brings more than 20 years of experience in distribution and marketing for the Isuzu brand across several international markets.

During his career, Hirano has held various roles that involved managing operations and business development across different regions for both Isuzu Motors and Mitsubishi Corporation. His strong background in global distribution and marketing is expected to support the company’s future growth in India.

Previous Role at Isuzu Motors India

Takeshi Hirano is already familiar with the Indian automotive market. He previously worked at Isuzu Motors India as Vice President of Sales and Marketing. In that role, he played an important part in building the company’s commercial foundation and strengthening its presence in the country.

His return comes at a time when the company is expanding its reach in India and strengthening its position in export markets.

Strong Manufacturing and Dealer Network

Isuzu Motors India is headquartered in Chennai and operates a manufacturing facility in Sri City. The company sells its vehicles through nearly 100 dealership outlets across India.

The automaker offers several popular pickup trucks and SUVs in the country. Its product lineup includes the Isuzu D-MAX V-Cross, Isuzu Hi-Lander, and the Isuzu mu-X, along with commercial variants of the D-MAX range.

India’s Leading Commercial Vehicle Exporter

Isuzu Motors India has also achieved strong export performance. According to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), the company was recognised as India’s top exporter of commercial vehicles in the financial year 2024-25.

With Hirano’s appointment, the company is expected to continue focusing on market expansion, exports, and strengthening its product presence in India.

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CMV360 Says

The appointment of Takeshi Hirano as Deputy Managing Director marks an important leadership change for Isuzu Motors India. With more than two decades of international experience and prior exposure to the Indian market, Hirano is expected to support the company’s growth plans. As Isuzu strengthens its domestic presence and export operations, this leadership transition aims to maintain business continuity and drive the brand’s long-term strategy in India.