Staff Writer
New Delhi: SML Isuzu Limited has announced the appointment of Yasushi Nishikawa as its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer. His tenure will officially commence on April 17, 2025, for a period of five years, subject to necessary regulatory approvals. The decision was formally approved during a Board of Directors meeting held in New Delhi on March 21, 2025.
The appointment of Nishikawa follows the resignation of the current Managing Director and CEO, Junya Yamanishi. Yamanishi will step down from his position on April 16, 2025, at the close of business hours. His resignation comes in light of a change in his position within Sumitomo Corporation, Japan, which is the promoter company of SML Isuzu.
In addition to taking on the role of MD and CEO, Nishikawa has also been designated as an Additional Director on the company’s Board. However, this appointment remains contingent upon the issuance of a Director Identification Number (DIN) by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs, Government of India.
Yasushi Nishikawa brings a wealth of global experience to his new role, having been associated with Sumitomo Corporation, Japan, for more than 38 years. Over the course of his career, he has held numerous leadership positions across multiple international markets, including Japan and Mexico, significantly contributing to the automotive sector. His expertise covers key areas such as automotive manufacturing, business development, strategic planning, and corporate coordination, positioning him as a strong candidate to lead SML Isuzu into its next phase of growth and market expansion.
One of the most notable roles in Nishikawa’s career was his tenure as General Manager of the Automotive Department at Sumitomo Corporation de Mexico S.A. de C.V. between July 2004 and September 2008, during which he played a pivotal role in expanding the company’s presence in Latin America. He further bolstered his leadership credentials as the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Mazda Motor Manufacturing de Mexico S.A. de C.V. from December 2011 to March 2015. During this time, he was instrumental in financial management and corporate governance. Beyond these key roles, Nishikawa has held several senior leadership positions within Sumitomo Corporation, actively contributing to the corporation’s automotive and business development strategies across various international markets.
Nishikawa holds a degree in Business Administration from Osaka University, Japan, providing him with a robust foundation in corporate leadership, financial management, and strategic decision-making. To ensure compliance with regulatory guidelines, SML Isuzu has confirmed that Nishikawa is neither disqualified nor debarred from serving as a director under the regulations of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) or any other regulatory authority. His professional credentials, along with a detailed profile, have been documented as Annexure II in the company’s official filing to maintain transparency and regulatory compliance.
In addition to the CEO transition, the Board of Directors has also approved the reappointment of Anuj Kumar Sethi as Associate Vice President (AVP) – Corporate Planning, IT, and Special Application Cell. Sethi, who has been a part of SML Isuzu since 1988, was originally set to retire on March 31, 2025. However, in recognition of his extensive experience and valuable contributions in corporate planning, digital transformation, and specialized vehicle applications, the Board has extended his tenure for another year, effective April 1, 2025.
As SML Isuzu embarks on this new leadership phase, the company remains committed to strengthening its strategic expansion and operational excellence under the guidance of Yasushi Nishikawa. The company is optimistic that Nishikawa’s vast expertise, coupled with his deep understanding of global automotive markets, will enable SML Isuzu to achieve sustained growth and enhanced competitiveness within the industry.
Outgoing CEO and MD, Junya Yamanishi, played a crucial role in shaping the strategic direction of the company, fostering innovation, and driving growth across multiple business segments. Under his leadership, SML Isuzu bolstered its presence in the commercial vehicle sector, making significant advancements in product development and business expansion. Expressing his gratitude to the Board of Directors, colleagues, and key stakeholders, Yamanishi acknowledged the unwavering support he received throughout his tenure.
To ensure transparency, additional details regarding these leadership changes have been made available on the company’s official website for stakeholders and investors seeking further information.