Shimano Group Europe President to step down at end of year

Shimano has announced that Marc van Rooij, President of Shimano Group Europe, will leave the Japanese fishing and cycle components brand at the end of this year.

Appointed to the post in 2009, he joined Shimano more than 34 years ago and has worked in various management positions at Shimano Benelux, Shimano Europe and Shimano Europe Holdings.

He will be succeeded by Fabio Takayanagi from January 1. He is currently Executive Officer, supervising the Bicycle Components Sales Management department within Shimano Inc.

Announcing his decision, van Rooij said: “After much reflection and due to personal circumstances, I have made one of the most difficult decisions of my life.

“This is not a decision I have taken lightly. For 34 years Shimano has been far more than a workplace – it has been a communuitry, a purpose and a source of deep pride. The past two decades in particular have been an extraordinary chapter, serving as the final person responsible for Shimano Group Europe.

“Together with Team Shimano, we have grown, evolved and faced challenges head-on, always with a shared commitment to excellence and innovation.

“I had the privilege of representing a brand that stands for quality, passion and performance. Shimano Inc.’s inclusion in the Tokyo TOPIX 100 index in 2020 (among more than 1,600 companies) is proof of the strength and vision of the organisation.

“As the largest sales and marketing subsidiary within the global Shimano group, Shimano Europe has played a vital role in that journey. I am proud of the milestones we have reached together. Thank you for the journey, it was an unforgettable one. Taihen Osewa ni narimashita, arigatou gozaimasu!”