Mitsubishi Motors Australia Limited (MMAL) has confirmed a significant leadership change for 2026, announcing the appointment of Shunichi Kihara as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective 5 January 2026.
Kihara steps into the role after a long career with Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC), spanning more than 34 years. He currently serves as Division General Manager, Global Sales, where he oversees the Global Sales Development Division. His experience across international markets and corporate strategy positions him to guide MMAL through a period of rapid change in Australia’s automotive landscape — particularly as fleets adapt to new emissions standards, electrification pathways, and shifting customer expectations.
In the announcement, Kihara acknowledged Mitsubishi’s long-standing connection with Australian customers. “I’m delighted to accept the position of CEO at MMAL and look forward to meeting you when I arrive in Australia. Mitsubishi Motors has been a strong and trusted brand in Australia for 45 years, and together we will build on that legacy to drive it into the future,” he said.
MMAL Chairperson John Signoriello welcomed the appointment, noting the value Kihara brings to the organisation. “On behalf of the MMAL executive management team, we welcome Mr. Kihara’s experience and leadership. We are confident that he will play a critical role in realising our shared vision of long-term success of the Mitsubishi Motors brand in Australia.”
For fleet buyers, this leadership transition comes at a time when Mitsubishi’s product planning and powertrain strategy will play an increasingly important role in procurement decisions. Fleets have relied on models such as the Triton, Outlander, and ASX for many years, and the next phase of the company’s direction — including future electrified options — will be closely watched.
MMAL has confirmed that Kihara will relocate to Australia to begin his role in early January.
