Kaz Hirai

Kazuo "Kaz" Hirai (平井 一夫, Hirai Kazuo, born December 22, 1960) is a Japanese businessman and former Chairman of Sony Corporation. He is best known for revitalizing Sony's consumer electronics business after years of financial struggles.

Hirai joined CBS/Sony Inc. (now Sony Music Entertainment Japan) in 1984. He rose through the ranks in Sony's music and entertainment divisions, playing a key role in the success of Sony Computer Entertainment (SCE), particularly the PlayStation brand, during the late 1990s and early 2000s. He served as President and CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment America (SCEA) before becoming President and Group CEO of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) in 2006.

In 2012, Hirai succeeded Sir Howard Stringer as President and CEO of Sony Corporation. During his tenure, he focused on streamlining the company's operations, divesting unprofitable businesses, and emphasizing key areas like gaming, imaging sensors, and entertainment. He implemented a "One Sony" strategy to improve collaboration across different divisions within the company.

Hirai stepped down as CEO in 2018, handing the role to Kenichiro Yoshida, but remained Chairman until 2019. His leadership is credited with significantly improving Sony's financial performance and re-establishing its position as a leading technology and entertainment company. He is now Senior Advisor.