Grey Japan appoints Wieden talent as new managing director

Grey has named Kimihiro Takano as managing director of Grey Japan, effective July 1, 2025. Takano will report to WPP Japan CEO Kyoko Matsushita as well as Grey's APAC CEO, Sarah Trombetta.

Takano jumps from indie Wieden+Kennedy Japan, where he was business director for the Japan and Korea markets. Previously he has held senior roles at Party, Dentsu, and Tohokushinsha Film Corporation, amassing more than 15 years of experience across financial services, entertainment, media, and content creation. A highlight of his career includes leading stakeholder management for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, working with the International Olympic Committee, the Japanese government, and the Tokyo Metropolitan Government.

The appointment comes as Grey Tokyo’s current CEO, Masahiko Okazaki, transitions to a new role at parent WPP as executive VP of business innovation. Okazaki was promoted to CEO in June 2024, around the same time Trombetta took on the APAC leadership role.

Meanwhile, Takano’s move follows a period of talent loss at Wieden+Kennedy Japan. Last month, the agency saw Diana Ganea jump to UltraSuperNew Tokyo as art director.

Sarah Trombetta, APAC CEO of Grey, said: “Kimi-san is a dynamic, ambitious leader shaping the modern face of our industry in Japan. His ability to blend creativity with innovation will be critical to strengthening our strategic partnerships with clients navigating radical digitisation. We are excited for him to write the next chapter for Grey Japan.”

On his new role, Takano said: "I am honored to join Grey Japan. Guided by 'Famously Effective,' I aim to address essential business challenges, drive brand growth, and create 'Cultural Value' that propels people and society forward. By combining Japan’s culture with the global landscape, we can pioneer the next era."