In a country that is struggling with a major gender imbalance in the workplace, Japan Airlines (JAL) has selected its first female president, marking a historic milestone, CNN reported.
A statement released on Wednesday stated that Mitsuko Tottori, a seasoned executive who joined JAL in 1985 and rose from a position as a cabin attendant, will take over as president on April 1.
This action is being taken in response to mounting pressure on Japanese businesses to improve gender diversity and close the gender pay gap, which is higher in Japan than in other Group of Seven countries.
At a press conference, Tottori stated, “There are female employees out there who are struggling with their career steps or going through big life events.”
“I hope my appointment as a president can encourage them, or give them the courage to take the next step.”
The change in leadership corresponds with the airline’s efforts to recover from the pandemic-caused decline in traveler numbers to Japan.
Notably, after a recent incident at Tokyo’s Haneda airport involving a collision between a JAL plane and a Japanese Coast Guard aircraft, the airline’s safety has come under increased scrutiny.
Luckily, the 379 passengers on board the aircraft managed to flee before it caught fire.
The airline released a statement stating that Yuji Akasaka, the departing president, will take on the role of chairperson while also holding the title of representative director.
Yoshiharu Ueki, the current chairman, plans to retire in April and step down as a director pending shareholder approval.
