NGK Spark Plug Co., a leading ignition plug manufacturer based in Nagoya, Japan, has announced the promotion of Keiji Suzuki to president effective April 1. The current president, Takashi Kawai, will transition to the role of chairman with executive rights, while Shinichi Odo, the former chairman, takes on a consulting role. This leadership shift is aimed at accelerating the company's transition away from an over-reliance on automotive-related business, particularly in light of the evolving market structures influenced by the increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs).

With approximately 80% of NGK's revenue generated from products related to internal combustion engines, particularly ignition plugs that ignite gasoline in engines, the company faces significant challenges ahead. The global market is witnessing a slowdown in the growth rate of EV adoption, yet there remains a persistent demand for traditional engine vehicles. However, industry trends suggest that, in the medium to long-term, the share of vehicles reliant on internal combustion engines will decrease as the electrification of transportation gains momentum. This requires NGK to rethink and reshape its business strategies to remain competitive.

Keiji Suzuki, who has been with the company since 1993 and has extensive experience including eight years in the United States, previously held positions such as head of the technology division responsible for automotive exhaust purification sensors. Under his leadership, NGK plans to strengthen its engagement in semiconductor and environmental sectors, as outlined in its mid-term management plan. This executive change reflects the company's commitment to establishing new business pillars that can contribute to its future growth in an evolving automotive landscape.