TOKYO: Asatsu-DK president Tsutomu Takeda has stepped down
following the loss of its largest client, Mitsubishi Motors (media, 17
August), worth about US$80 million.
The role has been filled by Koichiro Naganuma, a director of Asatsu's
International department and head of the joint Asatsu-WPP holding
company.
The change was made to rejuvenate the agency in difficult times, and to
respond to needs arising from the globalisation of the ad industry.
Naganuma is a fluent English speaker with US work experience. "He brings
an unrivalled international perspective to the business as well as a
profound understanding of the domestic issues to be faced," said an
industry analyst.
