Osamu Suzuki, the former chairman of Suzuki Motor Corporation, passed away on 25 December, at the age of 94. He died from lymphoma, as confirmed by the company in a statement. Suzuki was a key figure in the automotive industry, leading Suzuki for over 40 years and transforming it into a global powerhouse known for its compact cars and motorcycles.
Osamu Matsuda Born on January 30, 1930, in Gero, Japan, he grew up in a farming family. His journey in the automotive world began after he married into the Suzuki family, which allowed him to join the company founded by his father-in-law. Suzuki’s leadership style was characterized by decisiveness and a strong drive for progress. In his memoir, he emphasized the importance of moving forward quickly and not being hindered by too many opinions.
Under his guidance, Suzuki Motor Corporation expanded significantly. When he first became president in 1978, the company had around 300 billion yen in sales. By 2006, that number had grown to over 3 trillion yen. Suzuki also played a crucial role in establishing a dominant presence in India through its subsidiary Maruti Suzuki, which controls a significant share of the Indian car market.
Despite his many successes, Suzuki’s tenure was not without challenges. In 2016, the company faced a scandal over improper fuel efficiency testing methods. Following this incident, he stepped down as CEO but remained as chairman until 2021.
Suzuki is survived by his wife and three children. His contributions to the automotive industry and his leadership at Suzuki Motor Corporation have left a lasting legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
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