As Daikin Industries celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2024, much of its recent success and global prominence can be attributed to the strategic leadership of Masanori Togawa. A seasoned executive with over five decades of dedication to the company, Togawa has not only overseen Daikin’s evolution into a global leader in HVAC-R (heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration) but also reinforced its commitment to sustainable and innovative climate solutions.

Early Career and Rise Through Daikin’s Ranks

Born on January 11, 1949, Masanori Togawa joined Daikin Industries in April 1973. Over the following decades, his career trajectory reflected a consistent rise through the company’s leadership ranks. By 2002, he had become a Director, and just two years later, he was promoted to Director and Senior Executive Officer. His strategic foresight and operational command earned him the title of Representative Director, President, and COO in 2011.

In 2014, Togawa stepped into the role of President and CEO, a position he held until 2024. His transition to Chairman of the Board and CEO this year marks a new phase in Daikin’s leadership, as the company continues to innovate under his guidance.

Expanding Global Footprint and Pioneering Technology

Under Togawa’s stewardship, Daikin Industries expanded significantly, becoming a dominant force in global air conditioning and refrigeration markets. His focus on high-value-added products, particularly energy-efficient heat pumps and advanced climate control technologies, aligned with the growing global demand for sustainable HVAC solutions.

One of Togawa’s signature initiatives was the launch of a €140 million state-of-the-art R&D center in Ghent, Belgium. This facility not only enhanced Daikin’s innovation capabilities in Europe but also reinforced the strategic economic partnership between Japan and Belgium.

Togawa’s commitment to sustainable innovation transformed Daikin into a forward-thinking manufacturer capable of addressing environmental concerns while maintaining industry leadership.

International Recognition and Diplomatic Contributions

In recognition of his efforts to promote international business cooperation, Masanori Togawa was awarded the Commander in the Order of Leopold by the Kingdom of Belgium in May 2024. Presented by Belgian Ambassador Antoine Evrard at a ceremony in Tokyo, this is the highest honor conferred on foreign civilians. The award acknowledged Togawa’s contribution to deepening economic ties between Japan and Belgium through strategic investments and long-term industrial collaboration.

Navigating Environmental Controversies

Togawa’s tenure has not been without challenges. In March 2022, he came under public scrutiny due to concerns surrounding PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) contamination linked to Daikin’s Yodogawa Plant. During an unscheduled media interaction, Togawa declined to offer comments or apologies to affected residents, sparking debates around corporate responsibility and environmental transparency.

This incident underscored the broader environmental challenges facing industrial manufacturers and the importance of sustainability not just in product innovation but also in corporate accountability.

Internal Leadership and Legacy

Throughout his career at Daikin, Togawa worked closely with several prominent company figures, including Jiro Tomita, Masatsugu Minaka, and Yoshihiro Mineno. Together, they shaped Daikin’s strategic direction, fostering a culture of excellence and technological leadership.

Togawa’s influence extended beyond corporate boardrooms. Under his leadership, Daikin became a benchmark for operational efficiency, long-term planning, and global expansion—traits that contributed to the company’s enduring legacy as it crossed the century mark.

The Road Ahead for Daikin

As Chairman of the Board and CEO, Masanori Togawa continues to guide Daikin into a future shaped by decarbonization, AI integration, and environmental stewardship. With global climate challenges intensifying, Togawa’s emphasis on sustainable R&D and market-responsive product lines positions Daikin as a leader in green innovation.

The company’s centennial celebrations in 2024 are not just a tribute to its past but a signal of its readiness to embrace the future. Togawa’s leadership ensures that Daikin remains agile, innovative, and committed to delivering advanced solutions for a rapidly changing world.

Conclusion

Masanori Togawa’s five-decade journey at Daikin Industries encapsulates the essence of visionary leadership. From driving international expansion to spearheading sustainable product innovation, his contributions have reshaped the global HVAC-R landscape. As Daikin embarks on its next century, Togawa’s legacy remains central to its mission—delivering climate comfort solutions that are technologically advanced, environmentally responsible, and globally impactful.