Mazda Motor Corporation’s chairman Takashi Yamanouchi will retire after 47 years in the role.

The 69-year-old, who also served as Mazda’s president and CEO between 2008 and 2013, will be replaced by Seita Kanai, currently vice chairman and representative director.

Masamichi Kogai, Mazda’s current president and CEO, said: “To break with the company’s history of repeated ups and downs as a result of fluctuations in the exchange rate and changes in the market environment, Yamanouchi took the lead to formulate and implement a structural reform plan, thus restructuring and reinforcing the company’s overseas production, including opening a new plant in Mexico and promoting global alliances.

“He also concentrated resources on bringing out Mazda’s uniqueness through its Skyactiv technology and KODO – Soul of Motion design."

The changes will go into effect after the company’s upcoming ordinary general meeting of shareholders on June 24.