Japanese sportswear brand Asics has named Koichiro Kodama as its President and Chief Executive Officer for North America, marking his return to a role he previously held in 2020.
Kodama, who joined the Kobe-based company in 2016, served as President of North America from 2019 to December 2020. In January 2021, he was promoted to the position of Managing Executive Officer, which he will continue to hold alongside his new appointment.
As Asics North America’s CEO, Kodama will oversee the brand’s performance running, sports style, apparel, accessories, and core performance sports business in the region.
“My goal for the region remains unchanged: to set the business up for sustained success and to drive the growth of brand value and preference,” stated Kodama in a release.
“I look forward to returning to North America and making an immediate impact with our partners and key accounts as we continue to foster strong collaboration, establish a deep connection with our consumers, and bring the best products to the market.”
Kodama’s appointment follows a series of leadership changes recently announced by Asics, including the appointment of Mitsuyuki Tominaga as the new President and Chief Operating Officer, effective January 1, 2024.
The leadership reshuffle also involves the reassignment of Motoi Oyama, who currently serves as Chairman and Director. Oyama will assume the position of Senior Advisor and Director before retiring on March 22, 2024.
Other key leadership changes include Yasuhito Hirota, who currently holds the positions of President, CEO, and COO. Hirota will transition to the role of Chairman and CEO, Representative Director.