Japan Tobacco International announced that Juliana Mohd Yahaya, who led JTI Malaysia since October 2023, has moved to the role of vice president, sales and marketing for JTI North Asia. Effective January 5, JTI Malaysia announced the appointment of Didier Ellena as managing director.
Yahaya has been with JTI for more than 25 years, beginning in sales in 2000 before being promoted to positions including global brand manager, marketing director, and country manager, before taking the role of general manager in Malaysia.
Ellena brings more than 30 years of experience with JTI, having held senior leadership roles across multiple markets, including Hungary, Russia, France, and Italy, and will be responsible for overseeing the company’s overall business strategy and operations in Malaysia.
JTI Malaysia said the appointment underscores its focus on sustainable growth, regulatory compliance, and responsible business practices, while reaffirming its commitment to operating within Malaysia’s regulatory framework and contributing to the country’s economic and social development.