Osamu Suzuki, former chairman of Suzuki Motor Corporation and the backbone behind the company’s global success, has passed away at the age of 94. According to the automaker, he died on December 25 due to lymphoma.
Osamu Matsuda was born on January 30, 1930, in Gero, Japan. Married into the company’s founding family, he entered the company in 1958, taking the surname of his wife to become one of the greatest leaders that defined Suzuki: leader of small cars and motorcycles.
His tenure as president over two terms has made Suzuki the longest-running leader in the global automobile industry. His vision was a strong driver behind the company’s strategic partnerships with General Motors and Volkswagen, thereby opening doors to critical markets in North America and Europe. Yet his most audacious accomplishment was that he successfully established Suzuki in India.
Did you know? Osamu Suzuki, now former chairman of company, formed a joint venture with India for Maruti launch
In 1982, Suzuki formed a joint venture with the Indian government that led to the creation of Maruti Udyog. This venture produced the now-legendary Maruti 800, a compact car that revolutionized India’s automotive industry. The vehicle’s affordability and reliability struck a chord with millions, establishing Suzuki as the market leader. Today, Maruti Suzuki leads the Indian car market, which is an important part of the company’s global revenue.
Despite his successes, Suzuki faced challenges, such as a fuel-economy testing scandal in Japan that forced him to resign as CEO in 2016. However, his commitment to Suzuki Motor’s growth remained unchanged. Even after resigning, he served as an advisor and continued to shape the direction of the company.
Osamu Suzuki will be remembered for bold innovation, strategic leadership, and a commitment to excellence. His work transformed Suzuki Motor but also had a profound impact on the global automotive industry.
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