How competent is Honda PH’s new president for his role?

MANILA: Recently, Takeshi Kobayashi has been appointed as the newest Honda Philippines Incorporated (HPI) president — replacing Sayaka Arai who has led the company since 2023. He formally took over the leadership last April.

During the launch of the all-new Honda PCX160, the new leader said that his focus is to reach the company’s one-million sales, expand the motorcycle brand’s 3S shop network, and enhance HPI’s productivity and its dealer operations.”

But just how capable is HPI’s new president in carrying out his goals? Here’s what made qualify for his new position.

Kobayashi’s credentials

The new HPI leader brings with him more than 25 years of experience at Honda — holding key roles across key markets within the aforementioned period.

After starting his career at Honda Motor Company Limited in 1999 within the Human Resource Division, Kobayashi transitioned to Japan's Domestic Motorcycle Sales Division.

Following that, he took on senior roles across Honda’s regional and global operations — serving Overseas Operations Office handling a significant tenure in Europe as well as key positions at Honda Motor Europe.

He also had the opportunity to work within the Motorcycle Division’s Regional Operations for Europe before going back to the headquarters to lead sales strategy for global motorcycle operations.

Prior to his current role, his most recent stint was director of Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India from 2022. There, Kobayashi played a major role in contributing the highest sales volume among the Global Honda Genpo in the last fiscal year.

HPI stated that the company is looking forward to Kobayashi’s global experience to deepen the firm’s connection with the Filipino riding community.

“His leadership and expertise are expected to bring innovations that resonate with the unique needs and aspirations of the Filipino riding community, delivering mobility solutions that empower everyday journeys, uplift lives, and spark new dreams across the nation. With a guiding force of Global Brand Slogan; Honda The Power of Dreams, How We Move you. Create, Transcend, Augment, Honda Philippines Inc. will remain committed to moving people forward and turning aspirations into reality,” the company stated.

“I am honored to join Honda Philippines, Inc. and serve one of the most passionate motorcycle communities in the world. As we aim to exceed one million sales and production for motorcycles (combined ICE and EV) to further expand our market share, as well as enhance our Power Products Business, we will strengthen our product lineup strategy and introduce them through exciting launch concepts suitable for Filipino customers. This will be supported by effective ATL (Above-The-Line) and BTL (Below-The-Line) activities and Customer Service Operations to provide the best customer experience for Honda Motorcycle and Power Products,” Kobayashi was quoted as saying.

Also read:

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Honda PH unveils 6 new offerings at IR Bikefest 2025

Honda PH hits 10-M unit sales mark

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