Matsumoto-San is a veteran engineer with years of management experience in product development. He joined Mazda in 1985 working for the Test and Research Department No. 2 in Japan, and went on to a stellar career as manager and general manager in the NVH Development Department. His last job before coming to Europe was general manager for Chassis Development. He holds a degree in technology from the Kyoto University.

'I want to welcome Hiroyuki Matsumoto to this vital position,' said Jeff Guyton, president and CEO Mazda Motor Europe, 'and to thank Norihiro Tomita for the great job he did leading our R&D and Design Team these last three years. I'm certain that Matsumoto-San, like his predecessor, will be a great asset to my management team. His experience in product planning, development and certification will ensure that our vehicles continue to exceed the expectations of European drivers.'