Mazda Toyota Manufacturing (MTM) is set to undergo a leadership transition as Masashi Aihara, the founding Plant President, steps down from his role. Aihara, who has been instrumental in MTM’s journey since joining in 2018, will facilitate the introduction of Mitsunobu Mukaida as the new president.

During his tenure, Aihara played a pivotal role in shaping MTM’s growth, overseeing its transformation from its inception in cotton fields to its current stature.

“It has been a great challenge to start an automotive facility of this size from cotton fields, to where MTM is now. We received much support from the local governments, communities, suppliers, our team members and other stakeholders that has led to our success – two new lines, two shifts, producing two vehicles,” said Aihara. “My hope is to leave the same kind of positive impact on MTM and Alabama, that they have had on me and on my family over the past five years.”

Mukaida, bringing with him 35 years of experience at Mazda Motor Corporation, is set to lead MTM into its next chapter.

“My mission at MTM as a joint venture plant is to further realize the synergy between Toyota and Mazda through their respective strengths, and to develop it as a ‘best in town’ facility that is loved by our team members and the local community,” said Mukaida. “I will continue to work with determination to put down roots in Huntsville.”

Mukaida will assume the role of President as of April 1, 2024.

Mazda Toyota Manufacturing is a jointly owned-and-operated automotive production plant. The $2.3 billion facility has created 4,000 jobs and has the capacity to assemble up to 300,000 vehicles annually of the all-new Toyota Corolla Cross and the all-new Mazda CX-50.

For more information, please visit www.MazdaToyota.com.