Masanao Kataoka Officially Leads Honda Prospect Motor to Replace Shugo Watanabe

JAKARTA - PT Honda Prospect Motor (HPM) officially announced the change of leadership as part of a step to refresh the organization amid the ever-evolving dynamics of the automotive industry. The position of President Director is now held by Masanao Kataoka, replacing Shugo Watanabe who has completed his term in Indonesia and returned to Japan.

Senior Vice President Director of PT HPM Agus Budiman, assessed that the previous leadership period took place amid heavy market pressure. He said that the condition of the domestic industry at that time was not easy, especially in the last two years.

"For the past two years, Shugosan has led Honda Indonesia in an easy period," said Agus in North Jakarta, Monday, March 30.

According to Agus, the automotive industry must adapt to changes in consumer behavior and fast-moving global dynamics. However, Watanabe's leadership is considered capable of maintaining the stability of the company's performance.

One of the important achievements is a strong push towards electrification, including the launch of Honda's first electric car in Indonesia, Honda e:N1. In addition, hybrid models are also beginning to be introduced as part of a transition strategy towards a more environmentally friendly future.

Masanao Kataoka, who is currently serving, said that Indonesia has an important role in Honda's global business map. He admitted that he was proud to lead the company in this dynamic market.

"I am honored to be entrusted to lead Honda in Indonesia. Indonesia has always been one of Honda's most important markets globally, with great potential and a very dynamic automotive industry landscape. I want to continue to grow Honda together with consumers in Indonesia by providing a fun, reliable, and relevant mobility experience at every stage of their lives," said Masanao Kataoka to reporters.

He emphasized that a deep understanding of consumer needs is the key to facing market changes. According to him, each region has different characteristics so that the approach used must be relevant.

The commitment to continue to listen to customer voices will be the basis for decision-making, with a focus on shared growth through valuable experiences. Honda also remains committed to the "Three Joys" philosophy as the main foundation in running a business.

Kataoka started his career at Honda in 2000 and has extensive experience in various strategic functions in Honda's automotive business. He was involved in the field of Marketing & Sales in the Philippines and Malaysia, before focusing on Product Planning in Japan.

In recent years, he has also been responsible for Life Cycle Business Planning as well as Automobile Business Strategy, with a focus on developing a product portfolio that is in line with changing consumer needs and the dynamics of the global automotive industry.

In addition, he also has experience working in several markets in the Asian region, including the Philippines and Malaysia, which gives him a broad perspective on the character of the market and consumer expectations in the ASEAN region.

On the other hand, Shugo Watanabe expressed his appreciation for the support he received during his tenure since 2024 and had to start his duties with a challenging market condition.

"I am very grateful for the progress we have made together over the past few years," said Watanabe.

Efforts to bring hybrid and electrification technology are considered an important step in building the foundation of future mobility. Even though he is now back in Japan, Watanabe said he had a deep impression of Indonesia.