2026 promises to be a transformative year for Murata Machinery USA (Muratec USA), marked by growth and innovation.

On Oct.1, 2025, Keiji Yuasa, a seasoned leader with two decades of global experience at Murata Machinery Ltd. (MML), officially assumed the role of president and CEO of Murata Machinery USA. His appointment continues Muratec’s proud legacy of excellence and positions the company for an exciting future.

Muratec USA President and CEO Keiji Yuasa speaks during a ceremony to recognize the company’s Carolina Star Program certification from the N.C. Department of Labor on Jan. 14, 2026.

Yuasa succeeds Toshiyuki Komori, who led Muratec USA for four and a half years before returning to MML in Inuyama, Japan. Under Yuasa’s leadership, Muratec USA aims to strengthen its presence across North America and advance its end-to-end automation solutions.

In his first question-and-answer (Q&A) interview since assuming leadership, Yuasa shares his career journey, leadership philosophy, and vision for Muratec USA’s next chapter.

Career Journey

Muratec: You have worked in Human Resources and Logistics & Automation sales. How have these experiences prepared you for your new role at Muratec USA?

Yuasa: After graduating from university, I joined Murata Machinery in 2005. My first role was in sales, where I worked in the Logistics and Automation Division, with a focus on the distribution sector. After seven years in sales, I transitioned to human resources, where I spent two years in recruitment and five years developing domestic HR systems in Japan.

Later, I was appointed Managing Director of Murata Machinery Singapore, which sparked my passion for corporate leadership. After four years in Singapore, I returned to Japan and worked in corporate planning for two and a half years.

These diverse experiences have given me a holistic understanding of our business and the importance of collaboration across all functions.

Vision & Leadership

Muratec:  What aspects of Murata Machinery’s global philosophy or values do you hope to emphasize here in the United States?

Yuasa:  Muratec operates across multiple sectors in the U.S., including textile machinery, machine tools, logistics and automation, and clean factory automation. While each field has unique characteristics, they share a common purpose: contributing to our customers’ success through the application of automation technologies.

Our corporate philosophy will continue to guide us as we develop operations and deliver value to our customers.

Priorities & Growth

Muratec:  What do you see as Muratec USA’s most significant opportunities to grow and sustain its customer base in North America?

Yuasa:   We have several advantages: the stability of operating multiple businesses based on automation technologies, over 50 years of experience in automation and customer service in the U.S., and rising labor shortages that drive demand for automation. These factors position us well for sustainable growth.

Keiji Yuasa, second from left, talks with N.C. Department of Labor Commissioner Luke Farley during a tour of Muratec USA in Charlotte, NC, on Jan. 14, 2026.

Market Perspective

Muratec:  From your perspective, what is unique about the North American market?

Yuasa:  The North American market is distinguished by its scale and speed, as well as strong consumer demand, which creates significant long-term opportunities

Workplace Culture

Muratec: How has your work in different divisions, including HR and L&A, shaped your approach to fostering a positive workplace culture and supporting employees?

Yuasa:  All of my experiences at Muratec form the foundation of who I am. Work is interconnected rather than independent, and this applies across all divisions and departments.

Understanding this and cooperating to deliver value to customers is essential. I’ve developed this mindset over the past 20 years at Muratec, and I believe it reflects the company’s positive culture.

Human Interest

Muratec: Outside of work, what activities or interests do you enjoy that help you recharge?

Yuasa:   I have two children and deeply value my family. They just relocated to the U.S., and I’m looking forward to building a new life together. I also enjoy watching sports—especially soccer—and I’m excited to experience baseball, football, basketball, and motorsport here in the U.S.

Muratec:  As you begin living and working in the United States, what are you most looking forward to experiencing?

Yuasa:   I’m eager to experience U.S. culture and expand my knowledge. I’m especially looking forward to conversations with MMUSA employees and, of course, the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Conclusion

Keiji Yuasa’s appointment signals a renewed commitment to innovation, collaboration, and customer success at Muratec USA. With his global perspective and passion for leadership, the company is poised to strengthen its role as a trusted partner in automation solutions across North America.