Toyota has named its new European chief quality officer following the decision to create the post in each of its key geographical regions.

TME executive vice president sales and marketing Didier Leroy was unveiled as the European officer during what the company describes as an “impromptu visit” to Brussels today (23 March) by the automaker’s president Akio Toyoda.

“It is a new post – it would be in addition to Didier Leroy’s main post,” a Toyota spokesman confirmed to just-auto. “It makes sense for Leroy as he was in charge of the Valenciennes plant where they make the Yaris.

“The other positions have to be set up around the world to form a committee to hear customer feedback.”

During his trip to the Belgian capital today, Toyoda visited a local retailer to talk to customers and discussed the technique for the accelerator pedal repair with technicians.

The Toyota chief also addressed members of the manufacturer’s European operations and suppliers.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

“Obviously in the light of the recall campaign, Toyoda has taken time out [of] his diary to visit the US and he has come to Europe as well,” added the spokesman.

A statement from Toyota noted the president recognised Europe as a “crucial battleground” and that he encouraged the “reawakening of the passion for designing, manufacturing and marketing of automobiles.”

The new chief quality officers will meet on a special committee for global quality for the first time on 30 March. Toyota says it will consult independent, third-party experts to review the contents of that meeting.

See also:

Didier Leroy speaks to just-auto at the Geneva Show