One step in the continued investment in Asia involves renewing the leadership in China and Japan. Kari Rannisto became the new general manager of AP&T in Shanghai on July 1. Tatsuo Inoue has been the new managing director in Japan since mid-August.
The new general manager in China, Kari Rannisto, will continue developing AP&T's business in China and Korea, with a strong focus on growth. Since the start in 2008/2009, AP&T's operations in China have grown substantially, and the number of employees has grown tenfold from three to thirty people.
Kari Rannisto has worked a total of 18 years in Asia, 15 of those in China, for industrial companies such as SKF, Atlas Copco and SSAB. He has held several leading positions with full business responsibility within both sales and manufacturing.
"Kari has in-depth understanding of the Chinese business climate as well as comprehensive experience in heading up major projects and building strong sales organizations and distribution networks. He also speaks Chinese fluently. We are extremely pleased to welcome him," says Per Josefsson, vice president, sales and marketing, AP&T.
Strong presence in Japan
Tatsuo Inoue has been the new managing director of AP&T in Japan since mid-August. Under his leadership, AP&T will continue to develop its offer and reinforce its presence in the Japanese market.
Japan is a strategically important market for AP&T with its high level of technological know-how and stiff competition, which drive development of new innovation. Several of AP&T's major customers are based there as well. AP&T's ambition is to continue growing in Japan as regards both new sales of production solutions and aftermarket services for existing customers. AP&T also has a strong position in the Japanese market within isostatic presses through its collaboration with Avure.
"Tatsuo Inoue has extensive international industry experience, good leadership skills and enthusiasm, which will be extremely valuable in the expansive phase we are now entering," says Per Josefsson.
AP&T has had sales and service operations in Japan since 2002. The company's office is located in Yokohama.