Toyota Motor Europe has no intention of sitting idly by. Starting January 1, 2026, the Japanese brand announces significant changes within its organizational structure, particularly in Spain and Turkey. With four crucial appointments, Toyota is not only strengthening its presence in Europe but also its business strategy and efforts in hydrogen. Hold on tight, it’s going to be a shake-up!
A new CEO for Toyota in Spain
The first appointment that catches attention concerns Toyota’s Spanish subsidiary. Francisco Berrocal, former sales director since 2024, will be the new CEO of Toyota Spain starting January 1, 2026. He succeeds Miguel Carsi, who will take the reins of The Hydrogen Factory, Toyota Motor Europe’s hydrogen fuel cell division. Much like a head chef passing the baton to his sous-chef, Berrocal seems well-prepared to take on this challenge. Let’s hope he doesn’t lack spices in his recipe for success!
In Turkey, an appointment from within
On the Turkish side, it is Murat Bülbül who is promoted to the position of CEO of Toyota Motor Manufacturing Turkey, taking over from Erdogan Sahin, who has chosen to retire. Bülbül, a veteran with 30 years of experience at Toyota, will continue in his role as Chief Administrative and Financial Officer of the plant until the end of the year. It’s a bit like an iconic player from a team moving to a coaching position after a career rich in victories. Continuity seems to be on the agenda!
Toyota Europe’s organizational structure changes in 2026 within several subsidiaries as well as internally. © Toyota
The Lexus experience
In addition to the appointments at the helm of the Iberian and Turkish subsidiaries, Toyota Europe is also reorganizing internally with the change of role for Leonardo Carluccio, now Vice President of Business Strategy and Performance. This sales pro, who has proven himself in the European division of Lexus for over a decade, will undoubtedly bring a refined touch to the overall strategy. An expertise that should enhance Japanese know-how in innovation.
An engineer for the vice president position
Finally, last but not least, Thierry Boitel, a Belgian with a solid background in electronic engineering, is appointed Vice President of R&D4. This role was created to merge connected technologies and electronics. Replacing Gerald Killmann, who is also retiring, Boitel arrives with a fresh and dynamic vision to advance Toyota’s futuristic projects. A bit like an innovator in an operating room where every idea must be precise and effective.
Francisco Berrocal appointed CEO of Toyota Spain effective January 1, 2026 © autoactu.com
It is undeniable that these changes are strategic for Toyota Motor Europe. By reorganizing its leadership teams and strengthening its research and development capabilities, the Japanese manufacturer seems determined to play a prominent role in the European automotive landscape, particularly with its ambitions around hydrogen. If you are passionate about cars, stay tuned: the future looks exciting for the brand with the three ellipses.
