Japan Airlines has appointed Mitsuko Tottori, who started her career at the carrier as a flight attendant, as its first female president.
Tottori joined the company in 1985 and worked her way up to management level through the years, becoming Senior Director of Cabin Crew in 2015.
In April 2020, Tottori was promoted to become Executive Officer and Senior Vice President of Cabin Crew, and in April 2023, she became Senior Managing Executive Officer and also Senior Vice President of Customer Experience Division in charge of brand communication.
Tottori, who is currently the airline’s Senior Managing Executive and Senior Vice President of Customer Experience, will begin her new role starting April 1, 2024.
Tottori’s appointment follows the Japanese government’s target of at least 30% executive positions at top companies being held by women by 2030.
According to a March 2023 report by the World Bank, Japan ranked the lowest among developed countries regarding gender equality in the workplace.
“There are female employees out there who are struggling with their career steps or going through big life events,” Tottori said during a news conference, as reported by The Japan Times.
“I hope my appointment as a president can encourage them, or give them the courage to take the next step,” Tottori added.
