1. What’s your leadership mantra in the fast-evolving auto landscape?
In times of change, lead with empathy and stay true to purpose. The auto industry is transforming rapidly, but at its core, it’s still about people. At Toyota, we stay anchored in what matters most -people. Whether it’s our customers, our teams, or the communities we serve, we adapt and innovate to create mobility solutions that are sustainable and human centric.
2. How do you inspire and motivate your team during a challenging time?
Challenges are catalysts that bond teams and bring out the best in them. One of our ways to motivate teams is to constantly challenge them, thereby fostering innovation, ownership and adaptability. In an environment that demands ambidexterity, creating teams that can work cross-functionally has given us good results.
3. Tell us about a major screw-up in your career—what went wrong and what did you learn?
I can’t single out one—there have been many failures. But each has been a teacher. What matters is how you respond. I’ve learned to foster a ‘bad news first’ culture, where issues are surfaced without fear. We focus on finding root causes, not assigning blame. One key learning: failures aren’t about people. That mindset has helped me lead with clarity, resilience, and trust.
4. What’s a mistake you see many young auto leaders making?
Often, there’s a rush to chase disruption without pausing to understand the deeper responsibility that comes with it. In the auto industry, true leadership is a balance—being bold and innovative yet grounded in purpose. The best leaders don’t just move fast; they listen, learn, and shape change thoughtfully, keeping people and the planet at the center. Speed matters, but substance sustains.
5. What’s the next big disruption you foresee in the auto industry?
As climate concerns grow and policy frameworks evolve, we’re seeing an inflection point where clean energy solutions, whether hybrid or alternate fuel are not just niche, but mainstream. This transformation is not only technological but deeply value driven.
At Toyota, we believe in a multi-pathway approach to decarbonization, ensuring that our solutions are inclusive, accessible, and tailored to diverse geographies like India. The future of mobility is green and our challenge as leaders is to make that future both desirable and attainable for every consumer.
6. What books, podcasts, or quotes changed your perspective on leadership in Auto?
One philosophy that deeply resonates with me is Kaizen—the idea that small, continuous improvements can create lasting impact. It’s a core part of Toyota’s DNA and a guiding principle in my approach to leadership. It reminds me that real transformation isn’t always loud; sometimes it is quiet, consistent progress made with intention.
7. Toyota has built a reputation for reliability and long-term ownership value. In today’s experience-driven market, how is Toyota evolving to connect better with younger, tech-savvy Indian buyers?
At Toyota, we believe the real relationship with our customers begins after the sale. For us, it’s not just about selling a car; it’s about being there for every step of the journey.
Customers today, especially the younger ones, value honesty and real connection. They seek authenticity, seamless experiences, and brands that truly understand their needs. That’s where our people shine—standing by our customers with reliable service, honest support, and the kind of care that builds trust over time. That’s how we build trust, and that’s how we connect with the existing and next generation of Toyota owners.