Honda, in unexpected move, says CEO Ito to step down

[TOKYO] Honda Motor Co, in an unexpected move, said on Monday that Chief Executive Officer Takanobu Ito would step down in late June, making way for Managing Officer Takahiro Hachigo after six years in the top post.

Mr Hachigo, 55, an engineer, joined Honda in 1982 with a career spanning several countries including the United States, China, and Britain.

Japan's No.3 automaker has hit a rough patch over the past year with quality problems that have led to multiple recalls of its popular Fit hybrid subcompact.

REUTERS