Regarding JR Hokkaido, which is proceeding with the rebuilding of management with the financial support of the government, the government decided at a cabinet meeting on the 20th that Vice President Yasuyuki Watanuki will be appointed as the new president.
Due to the impact of the new Corona and the declining population along the railway lines, JR Hokkaido continues to face a difficult business environment, and is proceeding with rebuilding while receiving financial support of more than 130 billion yen from the national government over three years.
Under these circumstances, the government decided on a personnel case to appoint Vice President Yasuyuki Watanuki as the new president of JR Hokkaido at a cabinet meeting on the 20th.
All shares of JR Hokkaido are owned by the national railway and transportation organization, which is an independent administrative agency, and this personnel case is expected to be approved by the Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism after the general meeting of shareholders next month.
It is the first time in eight years that the president of JR Hokkaido has changed, and the current president, Osamu Shimada, is expected to become chairman.
At a press conference after the Cabinet meeting on the 20th, Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Saito said, "The experience and knowledge of Mr. Watanuki, who has been trying to strengthen the management base in various points, is indispensable for the revitalization of the railway business and is the most suitable. I decided that it was. "