Takeshi Sano appointed as dentsu Global CEO, succeeding Hiroshi Igarashi

Dentsu Group Inc. announced that Takeshi Sano will assume the role of Executive Officer, President, and Global CEO of dentsu following the company's 177th Ordinary General Meeting of Shareholders on March 27, 2026.

He will succeed Hiroshi Igarashi, who will retire after nearly four decades with the group, having joined the company in 1984.

"Takeshi Sano, who will step down from his current role as Representative Director, President & CEO of Dentsu Inc., is scheduled to take on 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 Board of Directors meeting, both scheduled for March 27, 2026. He will also serve concurrently as CEO of dentsu Japan and as a part-time Director of Dentsu Inc.," the company stated.

Dentsu Inc. further announced that, effective April 1, 2026, its Board of Directors has resolved to appoint Chisato Matsumoto as Representative Director, President & CEO, the position previously held by Takeshi Sano. Matsumoto will continue to serve concurrently as Chief Client Officer of dentsu Japan, overseeing and supporting dentsu's domestic business.

Chisato Matsumoto, Sano's successor, brings extensive experience in the Business Producers divisions and has led integrated solutions that drive clients' business growth over many years. He has held key roles, including Managing Executive Officer (Business Produce) of Dentsu Inc. and Chief Client Officer of dentsu Japan, and has served as Director and Executive Vice President of Dentsu Inc. since January 2026. In recognition of his proven track record in enhancing client engagement and leading business expansion across Dentsu Inc. and dentsu's domestic operations, he was appointed Representative Director, President & CEO of Dentsu Inc.

Alongside Sano's appointment, Yoshimasa Watahiki will be named Executive Officer, Executive Vice President, Global Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, dentsu, and COO, dentsu Japan.