Dentsu Group Inc. has announced a major leadership transition, confirming that Takeshi Sano will assume the role of Executive Officer, President and Global CEO following the company’s 177th Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders on March 27, 2026. He will take over from Hiroshi Igarashi, who is stepping down after a career spanning nearly four decades, having joined the organisation in 1984.
“Takeshi Sano, who will step down from his current role as Representative Director, President & CEO of Dentsu Inc., is scheduled to assume the position of Representative Executive Officer, President & Global CEO of Dentsu Group Inc. following resolutions at the 177th Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders of Dentsu Group Inc. and the subsequent meeting of its Board of Directors, both scheduled to be held on March 27, 2026. He will concurrently serve as CEO of dentsu Japan as well as a part-time Director of Dentsu Inc.”, the company said in a statement.
As part of the leadership reshuffle, Chisato Matsumoto will take over as Representative Director, President & CEO of Dentsu Inc. effective April 1, 2026, succeeding Sano. Matsumoto will also continue in his role as Chief Client Officer of dentsu Japan, where he oversees and supports the group’s domestic operations.
Matsumoto brings extensive experience from the Business Producers divisions and has played a key role in delivering integrated solutions that drive client growth. His career includes leadership positions such as Managing Executive Officer (Business Produce) and Chief Client Officer of dentsu Japan. Since January 2026, he has served as Director and Executive Vice President of Dentsu Inc., strengthening client engagement and supporting business expansion across domestic operations.
Additionally, Yoshimasa Watahiki will be appointed Executive Officer and Executive Vice President, Global Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at dentsu, while also serving as COO of dentsu Japan.
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