How NTT Data’s New CEO Will Advance Telco Networks

NTT Data is placing a telco veteran at the helm with its new President and CEO appointment, as the company accelerates its AI and infrastructure ambitions.

Approved by the company's board of directors and effective immediately, Kazuhiko Nakayama will be stepping up from his previous role as CFO.

The appointment comes as the global technology services provider deepens its focus on AI-enabled transformation and next-generation digital infrastructure.

As telco operators navigate rising demand for cloud connectivity and network modernisation, the leadership transition signals continuity in strategy alongside a renewed emphasis on growth.

Kazuhiko succeeds Yutaka Sasaki, who will become Senior Executive Vice President of NTT, Inc. on 18 June.

He has played a core role in shaping the company's business strategy and growth plans.

His promotion comes at a time when telco and technology providers are investing in AI platforms and the infrastructure needed to support them.

A global technology services business valued at around US$60bn, NTT Data operates in more than 70 countries and regions and serves over 70% of companies in the Fortune Global 100.

Discussing his appointment, Kazuhiko says: “Over the past three years I have had the honour of working closely with Mr Sasaki and the leadership team on a strategic course that has established NTT Data among the top five IT services businesses globally.

“That experience has reinforced my conviction in the strength of our offering, the quality of our people and the size of the opportunity ahead.

“As I take on the responsibilities of CEO and lead the growth of the NTT Data Group going forward, I feel a deep sense of dedication, possibility and excitement.”

Telco experience at the top

While NTT Data is best known as an IT services provider, Kazuhiko's career has been closely linked to the wider NTT ecosystem and the telco sector.

Since joining NTT in 1989, he has held senior positions across several key businesses, including NTT Docomo, NTT East and NTT Communications.

Those roles provided experience spanning enterprise connectivity and network services before he moved into broader financial leadership positions.

Prior to becoming CFO of NTT Data Group in 2023, Kazuhiko served as Senior Vice President and Head of Finance and Accounting at NTT.

His appointment places an executive with deep knowledge of telco infrastructure and digital services in charge of a business increasingly focused on helping operators and enterprises manage AI-driven transformation.

AI and infrastructure priorities

Under Kazuhiko's leadership, NTT Data will continue pursuing a growth strategy built around two priorities: AI-empowered New Value & Productivity and Next-Generation Infrastructure.

Both areas have direct relevance to the telco industry as operators seek new revenue opportunities from AI services while upgrading networks and data infrastructure to meet growing demand.

The company has identified Operational AI and Physical AI as important areas for future development.

Operational AI focuses on supporting business transformation and productivity improvements, while Physical AI centres on applying it within real-world environments such as industrial facilities and operational worksites.

These technologies have potential applications across network management, field operations, infrastructure maintenance and enterprise services.

Yutaka Sasaki, former President and CEO of NTT Data Group, says: “The appointment of Mr Nakayama as President and Chief Executive Officer follows a thoughtful and carefully planned succession process.

“Under the leadership of Mr Nakayama, NTT Data Group will embark on a new management structure. NTT Data Group stands at the very core of the NTT Group and serves as its growth engine.

“Under Mr Nakayama's renewed growth strategy, I look forward to seeing continued strength in performance and a commitment to achieving quality growth together as One NTT Data.”