Lloyd’s Register Appoints New Leadership in Japan
Lloyd’s Register (LR) has appointed Jim Smith as its new Strategic Business Partner and Senior Representative in Japan. This strategic move aims to enhance LR’s presence and support for clients in the region. Smith will utilize his extensive experience to foster growth and economic success for both LR and its clients. He will also work closely with clients to provide tailored solutions that meet their specific business needs.
Strengthening Client Relationships
In his new role, Jim Smith will represent LR externally within Japan. He brings nearly three decades of experience with LR, having held various technical and managerial positions across Asia. His previous roles include Regional Director for North Asia from 2015 to 2018 and Global Classification Manager from 2018 to 2023. Smith’s deep understanding of the maritime industry will be instrumental in connecting LR’s customers with its extensive network of capabilities and expertise.
Supporting Smith in this endeavor is Hiromitsu Kikuchi, who has been appointed as Deputy Senior Representative. Kikuchi has been with LR since 2006, starting as a field surveyor in Yokohama and Nagasaki. He has held several key positions, including Account Manager for Japanese clients from 2018 to 2023. In his current role, Kikuchi will focus on enhancing business relationships with shipyards, shipowners, managers, and equipment producers in Japan.
Smith expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, stating, “I am excited to bring a globally experienced senior presence to Japan.” He emphasized the importance of collaboration with Kikuchi to provide bespoke LR expertise to valued Japanese clients. Andrew McKeran, Chief Commercial Officer at LR, highlighted that this appointment reflects LR’s commitment to investing in major shipowners and shipyards in Japan, ensuring continued support and innovative solutions within the maritime sector.
