Akira Yamaguchi is the new marketing director of Jti Italia

Akira Yamaguchi has been appointed as the new marketing director of JTI Italy, effective July 2026. With more than two decades of experience within the Group, Yamaguchi will lead the company’s marketing strategies in Italy. His appointment marks a key step in JTI’s continued expansion and innovation efforts in the Italian market. Yamaguchi joined JTI in 2000 and has held multiple roles across Sales and Marketing over the years. In 2013, he moved to Geneva to become part of the Core Business Innovation team. He was promoted to E-Vapor Product Design Manager within the GRRP division in 2017, contributing to the development of several new vapor devices. In 2019, he took on the role of T-Vapor Product Portfolio & Design Director, overseeing the development of a range of HTP devices, including Ploom X and AURA. In 2023, Yamaguchi returned to Japan to lead the RRP Marketing organization, playing a pivotal role in the recent growth of Ploom in the Japanese market. Before his current assignment in Italy, he had been instrumental in shaping product portfolios and driving brand strategy across different regions. His extensive international experience, spanning sales, marketing, innovation, and product development, positions him well to guide JTI Italy through its evolving landscape. In a statement, Yamaguchi expressed enthusiasm for his new role, emphasizing the dynamic nature of the Italian market and its strategic importance to the Group. “In a time of continuous evolution in the market, marketing plays a vital role in promoting innovation, strengthening organizational capabilities, and supporting sustainable business growth,” he said. “I look forward to working closely with the team, leveraging my experience in international markets to further develop JTI Italy.” His career trajectory reflects a deep engagement with JTI’s global operations. From early roles in Sales to leadership positions in product design and portfolio management, Yamaguchi has consistently contributed to the company’s strategic objectives. His move back to Italy comes after a period of significant activity in Japan, where he helped drive the success of Ploom. This transition underscores JTI’s commitment to maintaining a strong presence in both domestic and international markets. The timing of his appointment aligns with JTI’s broader goals of enhancing its market position in Europe. As the vaping industry continues to evolve, the company is investing heavily in research, innovation, and regulatory compliance. Yamaguchi’s expertise in product development and marketing will be crucial in navigating these challenges while capitalizing on emerging opportunities. JTI Italy operates as a key player in the European market, focusing on delivering high-quality products and services tailored to local consumer preferences. The appointment of Yamaguchi signals a renewed focus on strategic marketing initiatives aimed at reinforcing brand loyalty and expanding market share. His ability to integrate international best practices with local insights will be essential in achieving these objectives. As Yamaguchi prepares to take up his new responsibilities, the focus will shift toward implementing his vision for marketing in Italy. His experience in managing complex product lines and fostering innovation suggests that his leadership will bring fresh perspectives and actionable strategies to the table. The coming months will likely see increased investment in digital campaigns, customer engagement programs, and sustainability initiatives aligned with JTI’s long-term goals.