Kentec leadership appointed to Hochiki global strategy team

Hochiki appoints new international strategy team

Hochiki Corporation has announced the formation of a new global strategy team within its International Business Division, with leadership from UK-based Kentec Electronics.

According to Kentec, Kevin Swann, Managing Director of Kentec, has been appointed Global Strategy Director for the division while continuing in his current role.

Swann’s appointment is part of a wider strategic alignment aimed at strengthening Hochiki’s market positioning and operational focus worldwide.

The company said the new team will lead on product development, regional market integration, and long-term strategic planning.

Kevin Swann takes dual role across UK and global operations

Hochiki stated that Kevin Swann will be responsible for aligning international strategy across product, market and operational areas.

Swann has served as Managing Director of Kentec since 2018 and has led the company’s expansion into the Middle East, Africa, and China.

He also oversaw the development of Kentec’s manufacturing and operations base in Dartford, Kent.

In his new capacity, Swann will support broader priorities including growth planning and regional collaboration.

Junichi Uozumi, Head of the International Business Division at Hochiki, said: “Kevin Swann’s strategic oversight will be key to ensuring Hochiki’s long-term success in global markets.

“With the support of Kevin Mears, Thiago, and Kendo, we are building a team that is not only focused on product, but on delivering the broader strategy needed to drive international growth and strengthen our global presence.”

Global product roles assigned across three continents

To support the new structure, Hochiki has confirmed the appointment of three product managers with distinct regional and technical remits.

Kevin Mears has been promoted to Global Product Manager (EN), having previously served as Head of Product Management at Kentec.

Mears is based in the UK and has more than 25 years of experience at the company.

Thiago Andrade has been named Global Product Manager (UL) and will be based in the US.

Andrade joins from Kidde Fenwal and brings experience in UL-certified markets in North America and internationally.

Kendo Matsuura, currently based in Japan, will continue in his role as Global Product Manager for Sensor Design.

Strategic goals target unified global vision

Hochiki said the new team will work across functions to harmonise product development and regional adaptation.

The company stated that one of the team’s key aims is to ensure local market needs are reflected while maintaining consistency across the global portfolio.

Swann is expected to coordinate strategic alignment across business units to support Hochiki’s long-term market positioning.

The team will also focus on international growth, business partnerships, and operational efficiencies.

According to the company, this collaborative model is intended to improve cohesion across regions and support scalable global delivery.

Hochiki Group seeks to enhance long-term capability

The new initiative reflects an ongoing focus within Hochiki Group companies on long-term planning, according to the manufacturer.

Hochiki said the appointments support the company’s broader direction around innovation, customer requirements, and international engagement.

The firm confirmed the team will work across business functions and geographic areas to drive alignment and delivery.

By combining product expertise with market strategy, Hochiki aims to build an integrated approach to global development.

The company said the team formation marks a formal shift toward coordinated leadership across global regions.

Kentec leadership appointed to Hochiki global strategy team: Summary

Hochiki Corporation has appointed Kevin Swann as Global Strategy Director for its International Business Division.

Swann will continue as Managing Director of Kentec Electronics.

Hochiki confirmed the appointment on 11 July 2025.

Swann will lead strategy across product, market, and operational areas.

Kevin Mears has been promoted to Global Product Manager (EN).

Mears is based in the UK and has worked at Kentec for over 25 years.

Thiago Andrade has been appointed Global Product Manager (UL).

Andrade is based in the United States and joins from Kidde Fenwal.

Kendo Matsuura continues as Global Product Manager for Sensor Design.

He is based in Japan and specialises in detection technologies.

The team will align global product strategy with local market needs.

Hochiki stated the appointments aim to support international growth.

Junichi Uozumi said the team will strengthen the company’s global presence.