Dynamic figure of national motoring scene reflects on time with top brand.

MANAGEMENT change for the country’s most powerful motoring brand, Toyota New Zealand, has occurred, with announcement its dynamic national boss has resigned.

The Palmerston North-centred market leader shared this afternoon that Neeraj Lala has resigned from the position of chief executive officer, a position he has held since July 0f 2020.

During his time leading the brand, which has held status as new car and light commercial market sales leader for 35 years straight, Lala has become a high-profile industry identity, mainly through eagerness to offer firm and at times controversial opinions on the future of motoring.

He has particularly pinned the brand’s colours to the mast in terms of a sustainability ambition.

TNZ announced on June 27 that Lala was on personal leave, for an undefined period. 

Soon after the NZ Companies’ Office register showed he had ceased as a director of the market-dominant national operation on June 30.

Since then a Japanese national seconded to TNZ, Tatsuya Ishikawa,  has assume the role of acting CEO, with TNZ saying today that will continue.

A statement from TNZ’s board came early this afternoon. It reads:

“Mr Lala has been a pivotal part of our organisation for 26 years, serving four years as CEO, contributing significantly to our growth and success.

“Most recently he has been instrumental in guiding us through the COVID-19 pandemic and associated global supply constraints, introducing our line-up of electrified product, proactive and transparent government advocacy, and maintaining a customer-focused approach throughout.”

Lala also contributed to the statement, sharing his thoughts on his successful career at Toyota, saying:

“I have loved every moment of my time at Toyota. My total working life of 26 years straight from university is a long time with one company, and I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together.”

Reflecting on the company's successes,  Lala said: “At 50, it feels like the right time in my life and career to transition out of the CEO role, especially with Toyota in such good health. 

“As many know, I have a broad passion for business, and it's time to explore those interests further.”

Lala highlighted some of the memories and milestones that have made his tenure so memorable.

“So many memories will remain with me forever, including our amazing people, winning Kantar’s Corporate Reputation Index, leading the company to 36 years of consecutive market leadership in four of our toughest years, and my time in Los Angeles with Toyota in North America. 

“My passion for clean energy and the introduction of Toyota’s hydrogen fuel cells to New Zealand is also another highlight.

“Mostly, I am grateful for the opportunity to have led such a dedicated and talented team. I am confident that the company is in good hands and poised for continued success.”

TNZ’s statement gave more information about Ishikawa, saying he has been with Toyota Motor Corporation for 20 years. He came to Toyota New Zealand a year ago in capacity as vice president and chief coordinating officer. 

“He has demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment to our company's values and strategic goals,” the statement said.

Ishikawa commented: “I am honoured to accept this role and continue driving the success of Toyota New Zealand. 

“Our focus remains on winning the hearts and minds of New Zealanders and providing mobility for all. We are committed to delivering value to our customers, shareholders, and employees. We wish Neeraj every success in his future endeavours.”

Lala became TNZ’s fifth CEO at age 45, succeeding Alistair Davis, who retired.

His enthusiasm for adoption of hydrogen as an energy source and consistent view that hybrids are often being a better match to national motoring needs than full electrics has riled EV advocates. The latter view has nonetheless proven prescient.

In February Lala was announced as co-chair of the Business New Zealand Major Companies Group, which comprises more than 130 of the country's largest companies. Its objective is to provide strong counsel to the Government and other key decision-makers by ensuring business has a strong advocacy voice in policy, business and economic debate.

He has other governance roles, being on the Sustainable Business Council NZ’s Advisory Board and being part of the steering committee for the Climate Leader’s Coalition. He is on the board of Kinto New Zealand and is vice president of the council for the Motor Industry Association, the representative body for all new vehicle distributors.

The only son of parents who emigrated from India to a new life in Wellington, Lala came to TNZ in 1998, initially in IT but rapidly moving through a variety of positions, ultimately being groomed to succeed Davis.

As part of the handover, the married father of three completed an MBA at Massey University and then joined Toyota’s leadership programme in Japan. 

After that, he spent three years in North America then made the move back to NZ to take up the role of executive general manager in 2018, rising to chief operating officer before finally taking the top spot.