He has gained experience in a broad range of activities at Toyota, primarily in corporate planning and administrative affairs.

In his work as general manager of the Corporate Planning division, Watanabe participated in charting and articulating a common, long-term vision for Toyota operations around the world.

In 1999, Watanabe was appointed senior managing director, after which he assumed the position of executive vice-president in 2001.

[2] Watanabe was born in 1942 in Mie Prefecture, Japan, and now lives in Toyota City.

An amateur musician, he sings in a men's choir, and he also likes to play golf and tennis.