Mitsubishi Motors Canada Appoints Kenji Harada as New President and Chief Executive Officer

Kenji Harada has been appointed as the new President and Chief Executive Officer of Mitsubishi Motors Sales Company of Canada (MMSCAN) and will immediately serve as Acting President and Chief Executive Officer.

He was previously appointed chief operating officer, MMSCAN on April 1 of this year. He will replace, Juyu Jeon, who will return to Japan after four years at the company, the last two of which were at the helm of MMSCAN.

“Mitsubishi Motors in Canada has come a long way in the past four years, and we are well-positioned to take this evolution even further anchored by a strong product transformation plan and strong leadership. I have had the privilege of working hand-in-hand with Mr. Harada for several months on a smooth transition and I enthusiastically pass the torch to a new leader that shows an incredible commitment to Canadian dealers and our customers,” said Jeon.

Jeon is appointed general manager, sales and marketing for North Asia, Mitsubishi Motors Corp. (MMC) which includes China, the company’s largest market based on sales volume.

Harada will build on the mission of transformation and lead MMSCAN to focus on supporting its 93 Canadian dealerships across the country in sales, marketing and operations through its head office support team and Parts and Distribution Centre both located in Mississauga, Ontario.

Harada brings a wealth of global experience to the Canadian business in some of Mitsubishi Motors top growth markets. Most recently as general manager, Vietnam and Malaysia Department, MMC, Harada was instrumental in supporting the local leadership team to increase market share, successfully launch the Xpander MPV (multi-purpose vehicle) into the market and helping to maintain Vietnam’s position as one of top three automakers in Vietnam. From 2015 to 2018, he assumed the role of general manager, Philippines Department, MMC, a top 10 country globally for Mitsubishi and top two automaker in the country.

Previously, he worked in various global capacities from sales to logistics and parts including at Mitsubishi Motors North America, and at MMSCAN where he was manager, Parts Project between 2008 – 2011 leading a special project to develop the Parts and Distribution Centre and improve delivery time.

“I look forward to rejoining this dynamic team in Canada and continuing on this amazing path to put new energy into our brand,” said Harada. “We will focus on building on the excellent foundation built and bring even greater support to our dealer partners. We have an incredible opportunity over the next few years to solidify our position as a PHEV leader, and to deliver on a brand promise to help our customers drive their ambition.”

Harada began his career at Mitsubishi Motors. He worked in the parts department more than 25 years ago. Since then, his career has gradually developed, expanding his expertise in parts and after-sales service, logistics and global sales.