Tatsumi Kimishima Retires: Shuntaro Furukawa Named New Nintendo President in 2018 Leadership Shakeup

In a significant moment for the Japanese gaming industry, Nintendo Co., Ltd.

announced the retirement of its President, Tatsumi Kimishima, effective June 28th, 2018.

The leadership transition marks the end of Kimishima’s tenure, during which he guided Nintendo through a transformative period—most notably overseeing the launch and global success of the Nintendo Switch and a revitalization of Nintendo’s brand worldwide.

The company has named Shuntaro Furukawa, an experienced board member and executive with a background in global marketing and corporate strategy, as the new President of Nintendo. Background on Nintendo’s Presidential Transition Tatsumi Kimishima was appointed as the President of Nintendo in September 2015, following the passing of the beloved former president, Satoru Iwata.

With decades of experience in finance and management—including his tenure at The Pokemon Company and as Nintendo’s Managing Director—Kimishima provided stability and rigorous business oversight during a period of significant change.

Under his leadership, Nintendo not only launched the Nintendo Switch in March 2017, which has since become one of the fastest-selling consoles in history, but also expanded its presence across digital platforms such as the Nintendo eShop and new initiatives like Nintendo Direct presentations. The official statement from Nintendo highlights that the change in management structure is designed to steer the company towards future growth and innovation.

The decision was approved at the 78th Annual General Meeting of Shareholders and finalized in a subsequent Board of Directors meeting on April 26, 2018.

According to the memo, Kimishima stepped down at the conclusion of his term, fulfilling his commitment to guide Nintendo through a transition period after Mr.

Iwata’s death, and to lay a foundation for the next generation of leadership. Shuntaro Furukawa: The Next Generation of Nintendo Leadership Shuntaro Furukawa brings more than two decades of experience with Nintendo to the role of President.

Having joined Nintendo in April 1994, Furukawa has been instrumental in shaping the company’s corporate strategy.

He has served as Director, Managing Executive Officer, General Manager of the Corporate Planning Department, and held responsibility for global marketing.

Furukawa is also a board member of The Pokemon Company, underscoring his influence in Nintendo’s key strategic initiatives. Born on January 10, 1972, in Tokyo, Furukawa graduated from Waseda University’s School of Political Science and Economics and owns 100 shares in Nintendo.

As President, Furukawa is tasked with furthering Nintendo’s momentum in both the hardware and software markets, growing the reach of the Nintendo Switch, and expanding Nintendo’s brand worldwide. Reflecting on Mr.

Kimishima’s Legacy Tatsumi Kimishima’s presidency is widely regarded as a success, thanks to his steady business leadership and ability to drive the company’s resurgence after a challenging period.

The Nintendo Switch, in particular, is seen as a testament to his vision and commitment to innovative hardware and engaging software experiences.

Kimishima will be remembered for solidifying Nintendo’s position in the modern gaming landscape, both in Japan and internationally. As Shuntaro Furukawa assumes the presidency, the gaming community and industry observers alike will be watching closely to see how Nintendo builds on its recent triumphs under fresh leadership.

Nintendo’s strategic direction and future products—revealed through avenues such as Nintendo Direct and the Nintendo eShop—will continue to shape the industry for years to come.

Tatsumi Kimishima Shuntaro Furukawa Nintendo Nintendo Co. Ltd The Pokemon Company Nintendo Switch Nintendo Direct