KOSÉ Travel Retail has named Hiroto Kitaki as its new President and CEO, effective January 1, 2025. Kitaki, who previously held the position of Director of Marketing, succeeds Shu Shibue in leading the company’s travel retail operations.
This leadership transition follows Shibue’s return to the Japanese domestic market, where he will serve as Director and General Manager of Department Stores for KOSÉ Sales, a role he previously occupied before taking the reins of KOSÉ Travel Retail in 2020.
Shibue’s tenure as President and CEO was marked by his effective navigation of the challenges posed by the pandemic. He played a pivotal role in establishing KOSÉ Travel Retail as a standalone subsidiary, overseeing its digital transformation and implementing key strategies that propelled the company’s growth in critical markets. Notably, under his leadership, KOSÉ made significant inroads in Hainan, with brands like DECORTÉ and SEKKISEI securing prominent market positions.
Kitaki, who brings nearly three decades of experience with KOSÉ, is poised to lead the company’s travel retail division into its next phase of growth. His deep expertise in strategic planning and strong relationships within the business community are expected to be instrumental as the company continues its expansion in the global beauty market.
As KOSÉ advances its international growth strategy, the travel retail sector remains a cornerstone of its expansion plans. Alongside Kitaki’s appointment, Sakura Bo will oversee the B2B business division, reinforcing the company’s organizational structure and supporting its strategic objectives under the new leadership.