Asics names new North America head

Japanese sportswear brand Asics has named Koichiro Kodama as its president and chief executive officer for North America, returning to a role he served in back in 2020.

Kodama joined the Kobe-based company in 2016, before transitioning to the role of president of North America in 2019, a role he took on until December 2020. In 2021, he was promoted to managing executive officer in January 2021, a role he will retain with his new appointment.

As Asics North America CEO, the executive will manage the brand’s performance running, sports style, apparel and 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 growth of brand value and preference,” said Kodama in a statement.

“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, a deep connection with our consumers and bring the best products to market.”

Kodama’s appointment comes one month after Asics unveiled a series of leadership changes including the appointment of Mitsuyuki Tominaga as the new president and chief operating officer, effective January 1, 2024.
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The reshuffle in leadership also includes the reappointment of Motoi Oyama. Currently serving as chairman and director, Oyama will assume the position of senior advisor and director. She is then scheduled to retire for March 22, 2024.

Other key leadership changes include Yasuhito Hirota, who currently holds the positions of president, CEO, and COO, who will transition to the role of chairman and CEO, representative director.