Dr David Cooke will be staying on as managing director of Konica Minolta Australia indefinitely as his replacement, Yohei Konaka, has been unable to travel to Australia due to coronavirus restrictions.
Dr Cooke announced his resignation from Konica Minolta in February but confirmed he would stay in the role until mid July to see out the Japanese financial year and facilitate a smooth transition to his successor.
Yohei Konaka was due to start as Konica Minolta Australia’s new managing director on April 1 but due to COVID-19 travel restrictions he has been unable to get to Australia.
“Previously we have announced that Yohei Konaka will be taking over as Managing Director as of 1 April however due to the borders being closed to Australia it has been decided that I’ll stay in this role until it’s possible for Yohei to travel to Australia, so I look forward to continuing to work with you all,” Dr Cooke said.
Dr Cooke also reflected on the personal and professional challenges being faced by all in Australia, and across the world, due to the pandemic and how these challenges will most likely result in many having to rethink things now and in the future.
“I know we’ll get through this time, and that Konica Minolta will continue to create genuine value for our customers and society with our technology, our solutions and our people,” Dr Cooke said.
“COVID-19 is affecting lives and livelihoods on a scale that we’ve not known in our generation. As we watch the news unfold daily, our thoughts are with those who are being directly affected and the healthcare professionals that are caring for those in need.
“Like many of our customers we’re learning what these changing times mean to us as a business and how we can work through the challenges that we’re currently facing.
“We’ve working with our customers to support their business and we’re finding new ways for our technologies to make a difference in the fight against COVID-19.”
Dr Cooke said ensuring people’s safety is Konica Minolta’s priority with staff transitioning to working remotely and dedicated technicians, consultants and trainers continuing to support customers with new safety and health protocols in place.
“It’s a time of uncertainty for many, and our aim is to make sure we can look after our employees, our partners, our customers and the community through these times, as we have at all times,” he said.
“Most importantly, take care of yourself and each other and let’s work together with kindness and consideration for everyone in our community, especially those most vulnerable.
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