WIXOM, Mich. -- NGK Spark Plugs (U.S.A.) has announced the promotion of Hideyuki Koiso to president and chief executive officer, effective July 1. Koiso previously served as executive vice president, and is a 31-year veteran of NGK Spark Plugs Co. Ltd. He also served as vice president at NGK in the United States from 1997 to 2006.

In his new role, Koiso will oversee all functions for NGK Spark Plugs (U.S.A.) Inc. He replaces Shinichi Odo, who is returning to Japan to assume the position of director – automotive division.

“The U.S. aftermarket and OE industries have many opportunities and our team at NGK is positioned to support our industry with the highest quality parts and the highest quality people. It is my pleasure to lead this team and help support our customers,” remarked Koiso.

During his time as Vice President, Koiso was instrumental in an initiative that has led to increased sales and efficiency in the aftermarket sales division. He also oversaw a re-engineering of the logistics area, which has the potential to dramatically improve on-time delivery. Koiso began his career with NGK in 1978, in the Japan headquarters. He then worked in the Osaka sales office from 1980 to 1986, and was in charge of OEM customers.

Koiso next served in the Tokyo sales office for a year and was placed in charge of aftermarket customers. His first overseas assignment was with NGK Germany, where he was responsible for aftermarket customers throughout Europe. He then began his career with NGK Spark Plugs U.S.A. After his first stint in the United States, Koiso returned to Japan to the position of general manager, overseas sales and marketing before returning to the U.S. in 2008.