Osamu Suzuki, the iconic Chairman of Suzuki Motor Corporation, passed away on December 25, 2024, at the age of 94 due to lymphoma. As one of the longest-serving leaders in the global automotive industry, Suzuki steered the company through decades of remarkable growth and innovation. His vision played a pivotal role in making Suzuki the largest automaker in India and a significant player in the global automotive landscape.
A Journey from Humble Beginnings
Born as Osamu Matsuda on January 20, 1930, in a farming family in Japan, Suzuki’s early life did not hint at his future in the automotive industry. Initially aspiring to be a politician, he studied law and worked in a bank. His life took a dramatic turn when he married Shoko Suzuki, a granddaughter of Michio Suzuki, the founder of Suzuki Motor Corporation. Following Japanese custom, he adopted his wife’s surname, becoming Osamu Suzuki, and joined the company in 1958.
Suzuki’s leadership journey began modestly, but his ambition and business acumen soon propelled him to the forefront of the company.
Transforming Suzuki into a Global Powerhouse
Under Osamu Suzuki’s stewardship, Suzuki Motor Corporation expanded its footprint worldwide. He led the company through partnerships with global giants such as General Motors and Volkswagen, which helped Suzuki penetrate the North American and European markets. In 2019, he forged a capital alliance with Toyota, cementing Suzuki’s position as a key player in the global automotive sector.
Suzuki’s contributions to India’s automobile market stand out as his crowning achievement. In 1982, he initiated a joint venture with the Indian government, acquiring a 26% stake in Maruti Udyog, which gave birth to the legendary Maruti 800. This compact car revolutionized India’s automobile industry, making cars accessible to millions of middle-class families and setting the stage for India to become Suzuki’s largest market.
By the 2023-24 fiscal year, Suzuki sold 3.2 million vehicles worldwide, with over half of those sales coming from India, second only to Toyota in global sales. The company also became a top motorcycle manufacturer, selling 1.9 million units during the same period.
Leadership and Resilience
Osamu Suzuki was known for his unconventional yet effective leadership style. His motto, “Never stop, or else you lose,” encapsulated his relentless drive for innovation and growth. However, his tenure was not without challenges.
In 2016, Suzuki stepped down as CEO after the company admitted to using unapproved methods to test vehicle fuel mileage in Japan. Taking full responsibility for the incident, he apologized publicly and took a 40% pay cut, demonstrating accountability and integrity. Despite stepping down as CEO, he remained Chairman, continuing to guide the company with his vast experience.
A Visionary with a Lasting Legacy
Osamu Suzuki’s impact on the automotive world goes beyond sales figures and market expansions. His ability to identify opportunities, such as India’s emerging market in the 1980s, showcased his forward-thinking vision. He transformed Suzuki Motor Corporation from a regional player into a global giant, deeply rooted in markets like India while maintaining a strong presence in Europe, North America, and Japan.
His leadership style was marked by decisiveness and pragmatism. As he famously wrote in his memoir, I’m a Small-Business Boss, “If I were to listen to everybody, it would make things too slow.”
Remembering a Trailblazer
Osamu Suzuki leaves behind a legacy of innovation, resilience, and global success. From his humble beginnings to becoming one of the most influential figures in the automotive industry, his journey is a testament to vision and determination.
As Suzuki Motor Corporation continues to thrive, especially in markets like India, Osamu Suzuki’s contributions will remain a cornerstone of its success. His life and work serve as an inspiration to leaders across industries, proving that bold decisions and unwavering commitment can transform businesses and industries alike.