Honda announces leadership changes for Australasia

Carolyn McMahon is the new Managing Director of Honda New Zealand, and the first woman in the post.

Meantime, across the ditch, the current head of Honda Australia, Mr. Yoshitaka Okamoto, is leaving to take up a motorsport management role in Japan. He is succeeded by Mr. Jay Joseph who will step into the role of CEO and Director of Honda Australia. 

Mr. Nobuya Sonoda, current Honda New Zealand Managing Director, is also taking up a new role with Honda Australia. Mr Sonoda, who is currently the MD of Honda New Zealand, will become Director of Business Services and New Business Program for Honda Australia. He has been with Honda New Zealand since 2002 and took over as Managing Director in 2014. 

“After 11 years leading the Honda team in New Zealand, I am delighted with the opportunity to bring this experience to the Australian market” he said. “It is an exciting time to join Honda Australia with so much change in the automotive industry globally.”

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Ms. Carolyn McMahon will take over as Managing Director of Honda New Zealand on 1 April 2025. With almost three decades of experience at Honda Australia, Ms McMahon leaves her Vice President and Director positions. She has been instrumental in the successful unification of Honda Australia (Cars) and Honda Australia MPE (Motorcycle, Power Equipment and Marine).

“I am honoured to take on this new role with Honda New Zealand,” said McMahon. “It’s an exciting time for the automotive industry. I look forward to working with the talented team in New Zealand…and further strengthening Honda’s presence in the market.”

With 27 years at Honda, Mr Joseph brings extensive experience with the brand as Vice President, Honda America.

“I am thrilled to step into the role of CEO and Director at Honda Australia during this pivotal time for the company” he said. 

“Carolyn has left an incredible legacy of innovation, collaboration, and customer focus, and I’m committed to maintaining that momentum”.