Sony Group Corp. has appointed Hiroki Totoki as its new chief executive officer, endorsing the long-serving finance chief’s initiative to broaden the company’s entertainment portfolio. Together with outgoing CEO Kenichiro Yoshida, Totoki has guided the Tokyo-based technology giant in prioritizing the expansion of its entertainment divisions. Last year, Sony showed interest in potential acquisitions, including Paramount Global and the domestic publishing firm Kadokawa Corp. This strategic focus on content—encompassing PlayStation games, anime, music, and films—has significantly boosted Sony’s revenue and profits. In the September quarter, the company reported a 76% increase in operating profit, despite a downturn in demand for its smartphone components and image sensors, which are utilized by major companies like Apple Inc. and Xiaomi Corp. Yoshida will continue to serve as chairman of the board, as announced in a statement on Wednesday. Hideaki Nishino will oversee the crucial game and network services division, while Hermen Hulst has been appointed as CEO of the game studio business. These changes, effective April 1, are part of a new management structure aimed at ensuring Sony’s long-term growth. Following the announcement, Sony’s shares rose by 4.7% in Tokyo, continuing the morning’s upward trend. The stock has gained from a reassessment of tech sector investments amid growing skepticism regarding artificial intelligence hardware companies.
“I am incredibly honored and humbled to have been entrusted with the important role of President and CEO. At the same time, I look forward to collaborating with our approximately 110,000 employees to further evolve and grow Sony,” Totoki, 60, stated. Totoki had already taken on more leadership responsibilities at Sony two years ago when he added the titles of president and chief operating officer to his role as chief financial officer. He has been the voice of Sony during quarterly earnings calls and has navigated the company through challenging times, including ongoing supply shortages of the flagship PlayStation 5 console. Recent earnings have highlighted the impact of successful titles—such as the Chinese video game sensation Black Myth: Wukong—on Sony’s PlayStation business. This year, the company is anticipating major releases, including Capcom Co.’s Monster Hunter Wilds and Rockstar Games Inc.’s Grand Theft Auto 6.
