Nissan is preparing for a major leadership reshuffle on March 12, as part of a broader effort to return to profitability. While current CEO Makoto Uchida is expected to stay in place for now, insiders say the board is actively weighing leadership alternatives to address the automaker’s ongoing struggles.
Mounting Pressure from Weak Earnings
Following two consecutive quarters of disappointing results, Nissan is under growing pressure to execute its turnaround plan, which includes shutting down three factories and streamlining management. The company has cut its annual forecast for the third time this year, citing weakening demand in key markets like the U.S. and China.
CEO Succession Under Review
According to Bloomberg, Nissan’s board has begun assessing potential successors to Uchida, with a temporary CEO being considered if a transition becomes necessary. However, analysts caution that a leadership change alone won’t fix deeper structural issues.
Failed Honda Merger Adds More Uncertainty
The planned leadership transition comes shortly after merger talks with Honda collapsed. The proposed deal, which could have created a $60 billion auto giant, fell apart after Honda suggested Nissan become a subsidiary—a move Nissan ultimately rejected.
With no clear strategic breakthrough and increasing investor concern, all eyes are now on Nissan’s next move as the company navigates both internal upheaval and external market headwinds.