The Walt Disney Company has announced the appointment of Tamotsu Hiiro as its new managing director for Japan, effective March 28, 2025. Hiiro, a seasoned executive with over 35 years of corporate leadership experience, takes over from Carol Choi, who has successfully led the Japan operations for the past five years.
Hiiro will be based in Disney's Tokyo office and will report directly to Luke Kang, the president of Disney's Asia Pacific operations. His responsibilities will include overseeing the growth of Disney's extensive entertainment ventures in Japan, which encompass films, television shows, theme parks, consumer products, and the Disney Store retail unit. In addition to his operational duties, Hiiro is expected to leverage his vast local business network to forge new partnerships, enhancing Disney's presence in the competitive Japanese market.
Prior to joining Disney, Hiiro served as the president and CEO of McDonald's Japan, where he played a crucial role in driving the company's success. Under his leadership, McDonald's Japan achieved a record-breaking revenue of $5.18 billion (approximately 777 billion Japanese yen) in 2024. His impressive career also includes more than three decades at Johnson & Johnson, culminating in his position as president of the company's Japan division from 2012 to 2018.
Carol Choi, who is stepping down from her role as managing director, will continue with Disney as the executive vice president for APAC studios, focusing on original content strategy, networks, and integrated marketing. During her tenure, Choi successfully positioned Disney+ as a formidable player in Japan's streaming landscape, overseeing a series of box office hits, including "Mufasa: The Lion King," "Moana 2," "Deadpool & Wolverine," and "Inside Out 2." Her strategic vision has helped establish Disney's original content strategy and team in Japan.
In a statement regarding Hiiro's appointment, Luke Kang expressed confidence in Hiiro's capabilities, stating, "We are thrilled to have such an accomplished leader like Hiiro-san take the helm of our Japan business, as we continue to deepen our consumer connections in this incredibly important market. I believe his deep market insight, strategic business acumen, and extensive local network will bring our Disney Entertainment business to new heights in Japan." Kang added that Hiiro will build on the solid foundation established by Choi, who has made a lasting impact on Disney's operations in Japan.
Hiiro himself expressed enthusiasm about joining Disney, stating, "I am delighted to join such an iconic and respected global company like The Walt Disney Company, which has generations of stories and characters that millions of Japanese consumers love. As Japan grows in strategic importance as a consumer and content hub for the entertainment industry, I am looking forward to the opportunity to contribute to the exciting momentum of the company."
The connection between Disney and Japan dates back to 1959, when the company first established its commercial presence in the country. Today, Walt Disney Japan operates across multiple entertainment sectors, including studios, streaming services like Disney+, theme parks, gaming, consumer products, and retail operations through Disney stores.
Hiiro's appointment marks a significant moment for Disney Japan, as the company aims to expand its influence and offerings in a market that is increasingly vital to its global strategy. With Hiiro at the helm, Disney is poised to continue its legacy of storytelling and entertainment excellence, catering to the tastes and preferences of Japanese consumers.
As the entertainment landscape continues to evolve, Hiiro's leadership will be crucial in navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. With a proven track record and a deep understanding of the local market, he is expected to spearhead initiatives that not only enhance Disney's brand presence but also resonate with audiences across Japan.
In summary, the transition in leadership at Disney Japan underscores the company's commitment to fostering strong local ties while leveraging global expertise. With Tamotsu Hiiro's extensive background and Carol Choi's continued involvement, Disney is well-equipped to thrive in the competitive Japanese entertainment industry.
