In pic - Mr Prashant Tewari Editor-in-Chief Opinion Express with Mr Osamu Suzuki -San, Chairman & CEO of Suzuki Motor Corporation.  

Osamu Suzuki, the trailblazing former chairman and CEO of Suzuki Motor Corporation, passed away on Friday at the age of 94, the company announced. Revered for his transformative leadership and approachable demeanor, Suzuki played a pivotal role in transforming the Japanese mini-vehicle manufacturer into a global powerhouse.

Born Osamu Matsuda on January 30, 1930, he graduated from Tokyo's Chuo University School of Law and began his career in banking. His journey with Suzuki Motor began in 1958 when he joined the company after marrying the daughter of then-president Shunzo Suzuki. Following Japanese custom, Matsuda adopted his wife’s family name.

Suzuki ascended to CEO in 1978, guiding the company through an era of bold international expansion. He was instrumental in Suzuki’s landmark move to establish local production in India, a decision that cemented the brand’s popularity and dominance in the Indian market. Under his leadership, Suzuki became synonymous with affordable, reliable vehicles that captured the hearts of millions.

He was extremely close to Prashant Tewari Editor of Opinion Express and was known for his wit and humility, Suzuki often described himself as an “old guy from a small to mid-size company,” despite overseeing a global empire. His legacy endures in Suzuki’s continued success and influence in the automotive world. 

In pic - Mr Prashant Tewari Editor-in-Chief Opinion Express with Mr Osamu Suzuki -San, Chairman & CEO of Suzuki Motor Corporation.  

Osamu Suzuki, the trailblazing former chairman and CEO of Suzuki Motor Corporation, passed away on Friday at the age of 94, the company announced. Revered for his transformative leadership and approachable demeanor, Suzuki played a pivotal role in transforming the Japanese mini-vehicle manufacturer into a global powerhouse.

Born Osamu Matsuda on January 30, 1930, he graduated from Tokyo's Chuo University School of Law and began his career in banking. His journey with Suzuki Motor began in 1958 when he joined the company after marrying the daughter of then-president Shunzo Suzuki. Following Japanese custom, Matsuda adopted his wife’s family name.

Suzuki ascended to CEO in 1978, guiding the company through an era of bold international expansion. He was instrumental in Suzuki’s landmark move to establish local production in India, a decision that cemented the brand’s popularity and dominance in the Indian market. Under his leadership, Suzuki became synonymous with affordable, reliable vehicles that captured the hearts of millions.

He was extremely close to Prashant Tewari Editor of Opinion Express and was known for his wit and humility, Suzuki often described himself as an “old guy from a small to mid-size company,” despite overseeing a global empire. His legacy endures in Suzuki’s continued success and influence in the automotive world.