Honda’s No. 2 executive Shinji Aoyama resigns following allegation of inappropriate conduct

Honda has announced that board director, executive vice-president and representative executive officer Shinji Aoyama has resigned following an allegation that he had engaged in inappropriate conduct during a social gathering outside of work hours.

The company said that in response to the situation, its audit committee led an investigation into the accusations against Aoyama, one of its two executive VPs, and had compiled a disciplinary action plan, which was then submitted to the board of directors. However, the 61-year-old submitted his resignation before any action was taken.

“It is deeply regrettable that an individual positioned as a leader in the management of the company, and who is expected to set an example for the respect of human rights and compliance with relevant laws and regulations, has become the subject of an allegation of conduct contrary to these principles,” the automaker said in a notice.

It was also announced that Honda CEO Toshihiro Mibe will voluntarily return 20% of his monthly compensation for a period of two months “in light of the seriousness of this matter and based on his role as leader of the management team.” The company added that a new management structure in response to this matter will be announced in the near future.

Aoyama joined Honda in 1986. Rising up the ranks, his previous roles include heading the motorcycle business in Asia Oceania as well as its operations in North America. In July 2021, he assumed the responsibility of leading Honda’s electrification business, and became senior managing executive officer in 2022.

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