Nissan Appoints Its First Sustainability Leader

Nissan Motor Co. has named Hitoshi Kawaguchi to the new position of chief sustainability officer.

Kawaguchi, who joined Nissan in 1976, will retain his responsibilities as senior vice president of global external and government affairs, Japan communications, corporate service management and IP promotion. He will report directly to CEO Carlos Ghosn.

The 62-year-old will use his new position to help align Nissan’s sustainability efforts with the company’s corporate strategy. That will mean Nissan’s stance and activites in such areas as climate change, urbanization, vehicle safety, safe transportation for the elderly and more.