NYK Line Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

NYK Line has 5 executives leading key functions including energy division management, information technology, financial strategy, marine safety, and corporate planning.

Focused on global logistics and bulk shipping, NYK Line maintains a commitment to operational excellence and sustainable maritime transportation solutions across international markets.

Leadership Roles at NYK Line

  • Chief Executive Officer of Energy Division - Akira Kono
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer & Chief Strategy Officer - Naoki Shindo
  • Executive Secretary To the President, Corporate Planning Group - Shogo Terajima
  • Chief Information Officer & Group Senior VP, Business Management - Kenneth Donnelly
  • Chief Safety Officer (Marine) - Hisaya Higuchi
  • Akira Kono - Chief Executive Officer of Energy Division

    Akira Kono, the Chief Executive Officer of Energy Division at NYK Line, directs all strategic initiatives regarding global energy transportation and bulk shipping assets. Kono manages the complex logistics of oil, gas, and renewable energy cargo, ensuring that the fleet meets rigorous international standards. By overseeing the expansion of energy-related infrastructure, the Chief Executive Officer of Energy Division drives the transition toward greener maritime fuel solutions. This leadership role involves coordinating with global partners to secure long-term energy supply chains across the Asia-Pacific and European markets. Akira Kono optimizes vessel utilization rates to maximize profitability while maintaining strict adherence to environmental regulations. Through the implementation of advanced fleet management technologies, Kono enhances the operational efficiency of the entire energy division. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer of Energy Division secures the competitive position of the company within the volatile global energy sector.

    Naoki Shindo - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer & Chief Strategy Officer

    Naoki Shindo, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer & Chief Strategy Officer at NYK Line, manages the fiscal health and long-term strategic direction of the company. Shindo oversees capital allocation, financial reporting, and investment planning to ensure sustainable growth across the logistics and real estate portfolios. By formulating comprehensive business strategies, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer & Chief Strategy Officer drives the expansion into emerging markets and new service sectors. This leadership role involves maintaining strong relationships with investors and financial institutions to support large-scale maritime projects. Naoki Shindo optimizes the balance sheet to mitigate risks associated with global trade fluctuations. Through rigorous financial oversight, Shindo ensures that corporate resources align with the overarching mission of the company. Ultimately, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer & Chief Strategy Officer secures the financial stability required for continued innovation in the transportation industry.

    Shogo Terajima - Executive Secretary To the President, Corporate Planning Group

    Shogo Terajima, the Executive Secretary To the President, Corporate Planning Group at NYK Line, coordinates the execution of high-level corporate initiatives and strategic planning activities. Terajima oversees the flow of information between the President and the various business units to ensure alignment with the core mission. By facilitating cross-departmental communication, the Executive Secretary To the President, Corporate Planning Group drives the implementation of long-term organizational goals. This leadership role involves preparing detailed reports and presentations that guide executive decision-making regarding market expansion and operational adjustments. Shogo Terajima manages the administrative framework of the corporate planning group to enhance organizational efficiency. Through the synthesis of complex data from different divisions, Terajima supports the development of actionable business strategies. Ultimately, the Executive Secretary To the President, Corporate Planning Group ensures that the leadership team remains focused on achieving the strategic objectives of the company.

    Kenneth Donnelly - Chief Information Officer & Group Senior VP, Business Management

    Kenneth Donnelly, the Chief Information Officer & Group Senior VP, Business Management at NYK Line, architects the digital transformation of global logistics operations. Donnelly oversees the integration of enterprise resource planning systems to streamline business management across all regional offices. By implementing robust cybersecurity frameworks, the Chief Information Officer & Group Senior VP, Business Management protects critical shipping data and operational intelligence. This leadership role involves aligning technological investments with the broader corporate strategy to improve decision-making speed and accuracy. Kenneth Donnelly drives the adoption of data analytics to optimize supply chain visibility for clients worldwide. Through the modernization of internal communication platforms, Donnelly fosters collaboration between the Tokyo headquarters and international branches. Ultimately, the Chief Information Officer & Group Senior VP, Business Management ensures that the technological infrastructure supports the long-term growth and digital resilience of the entire organization.

    Hisaya Higuchi - Chief Safety Officer (Marine)

    Hisaya Higuchi, the Chief Safety Officer (Marine) at NYK Line, directs all safety protocols and risk management initiatives for the global fleet. Higuchi oversees the implementation of maritime security standards and emergency response procedures to protect crew members and cargo during transit. By enforcing strict compliance with international maritime regulations, the Chief Safety Officer (Marine) drives a culture of zero-incident operations across all shipping lanes. This leadership role involves conducting regular safety audits and training programs to maintain the highest levels of operational integrity. Hisaya Higuchi manages the integration of safety-focused technology to monitor vessel performance and prevent potential hazards at sea. Through continuous improvement of safety management systems, Higuchi minimizes operational risks in diverse geographic environments. Ultimately, the Chief Safety Officer (Marine) ensures that the company maintains its reputation for reliability and safety in the highly demanding global shipping market.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding NYK Line Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads NYK Line?
    NYK Line is led by Akira Kono (Chief Executive Officer of Energy Division), along with executives such as Naoki Shindo (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer & Chief Strategy Officer) and Shogo Terajima (Executive Secretary To the President, Corporate Planning Group).
    Who is part of NYK Line’s executive team?
    The executive team of NYK Line includes leaders such as Akira Kono (Chief Executive Officer of Energy Division), Naoki Shindo (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer & Chief Strategy Officer), Shogo Terajima (Executive Secretary To the President, Corporate Planning Group) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does NYK Line have?
    NYK Line has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in NYK Line’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of NYK Line includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer of Energy Division, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer & Chief Strategy Officer, Executive Secretary To the President, Corporate Planning Group, Chief Information Officer & Group Senior VP, Business Management, Chief Safety Officer (Marine).