Mikimoto America has appointed Kentaro Nishimura as president and chief executive officer.
Nishimura brings more than 25 years of experience with Mikimoto, starting in Tokyo in 1997 where he managed retail and wholesale gift operations. He later joined the custom product team, creating bespoke pieces for corporate clients. In 2000, Nishimura relocated to the U.S., working his way up from assistant manager in Las Vegas to key leadership roles across purchasing and merchandising, ultimately becoming chief operating officer.
In his new role, Nishimura reports to Yasuhiko Hashimoto, global chief operating officer of Mikimoto. Nishimura started in his new role April 1.
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Toshiyuki Kuma had served as president and CEO of Mikimoto Americas until his departure in 2019, at which point Hashimoto assumed the role. Hashimoto will now focus on the broader global business.
Asked what this new chapter means for Nishimura and Mikimoto, Nishimura said, “Having been part of Mikimoto for the past 25 years, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the brand’s remarkable evolution, championing its heritage and carrying forward the exceptional craftsmanship that sets Mikimoto apart.”
Nishimura said he was honored to be appointed president and CEO, “where I can continue to drive strategic growth through selective retail expansion, elevated client experiences, and meaningful digital transformation.”
“This new chapter is about deepening our emotional connection with our clients and ensuring that Mikimoto continues to inspire for generations to come,” Nishimura said.
Discussing the biggest challenges facing Mikimoto, he said, “At Mikimoto one of our greatest ongoing challenges is striking the right balance between honoring our legacy and embracing innovation. We are continually pushing creative boundaries to remain at the forefront of design, while staying true to the craftsmanship, quality, and values that have defined our brand for over a century. The key is expressing these deep-rooted ideals — artistry, authenticity and refinement — in ways that resonate emotionally and culturally with each new generation.”
He said that strategic collaborations, such as those with Chrome Hearts and Comme des Garçons, have allowed Mikimoto “to explore new creative dimensions and connect with diverse audiences in unexpected and meaningful ways.”
“Similarly, our use of conch pearls, which are exceptionally rare, represents a bold step in redefining what pearl jewelry can be. These unique creations speak to our desire to innovate within our own category, and to continue to create the extraordinary. By balancing timeless elegance with contemporary relevance, we’re not only preserving our past but we’re shaping a future that feels just as exciting and beautifully Mikimoto,” Nishimura said.
Mikimoto has four freestanding stores in the U.S. — New York, Beverly Hills, Costa Mesa, Calif., and Las Vegas. The brand also sells through its website and independent jewelers, as well as select department stores and retailers.
