Dentsu Group Inc. announced a significant reshaping of its global management structure, aimed at enhancing operational effectiveness and fostering client growth. Effective March 27, 2026, the changes include the appointment of Takeshi Sano as the new President and Global CEO, succeeding Hiroshi Igarashi. This strategic move comes as Dentsu navigates challenges in its overseas markets while laying a stronger foundation for growth.
The restructuring is designed to strengthen Dentsu’s execution capabilities across its operations. The company, headquartered in Tokyo, has faced a rapidly evolving business landscape, but it aims to leverage its established culture and governance to drive transformation and deepen trust with clients and stakeholders. The new management structure reflects a commitment to maximizing client contributions and enhancing corporate value.
Under Sano’s leadership, who currently serves as CEO of Dentsu Japan, the company has achieved impressive results, including 11 consecutive quarters of revenue growth. Sano’s dual role will help maintain the momentum of Dentsu Japan, which generates approximately 40% of the group’s net revenue, and facilitate the integration of domestic and international operations.
In tandem with Sano’s appointment, Yoshimasa Watahiki will assume the role of Global Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, further reinforcing governance and oversight across the organization. Watahiki’s extensive experience in business strategy and management within Dentsu Japan positions him well to contribute to global operations.
Another key appointment is Shigeki Endo, who will continue as Global CFO. Endo brings over 30 years of financial leadership experience and has been pivotal in driving the company’s financial transformation. His focus will remain on enhancing the financial foundation of the group and ensuring sustainable cash generation.
To streamline operations, the new Global Management Team will eliminate the Global COO role that previously oversaw all regions. This change allows regional CEOs and practice Presidents to report directly to the Global CEO, promoting agility and a client-centric approach. The new structure aims to foster closer relationships with clients and facilitate quicker decision-making.
In addition to these changes, Dentsu has appointed a Global Chief Transformation Officer to spearhead enterprise-wide initiatives, aligning strategies and technology across the organization. These roles are critical for accelerating global transformation and enhancing Dentsu’s positioning as a growth partner for its clients.
Sano emphasized the importance of adapting leadership practices in response to shifting market dynamics. He stated, “We continue to thoughtfully evolve our leadership approach and management practices to support the pace of our transformation and strengthen execution.” His vision includes fostering trust with stakeholders and reinforcing Dentsu’s commitment to delivering value from strategy to execution.
The new Global Management Team will consist of 23 members responsible for overseeing operations in approximately 120 countries. This diverse team will play a crucial role in driving the unified management of the Dentsu Group and enhancing its global reach.
As Dentsu prepares for these changes, all appointments, including those of Sano, Watahiki, and Endo, are subject to approval at the upcoming General Meeting of Shareholders on March 27, 2026. The restructuring signifies a pivotal moment for Dentsu as it continues to adapt to the complexities of the global market while striving for sustained growth and client satisfaction.
For more information about Dentsu’s new structure and leadership, visit their official website.
