Koyo Yokoi, former TDK Electronics Corporation (TEC) EVP Sales and Marketing, passed away earlier this month after a battle with cancer at age 72.
He led the company’s American market development of all recording media technology until 2007.
Yokoi, with a storied career at TEC that spanned over 25 years, personally led sales and marketing initiatives for a series of new recording format introductions including open reel master audio recording tape, SA audio cassettes, VHS video cassettes, recordable Blu-ray, DVD and CDs, as well as Medical Grade DICOM-compatible CD and DVD recording systems.
“His prominent passion for the technology and the arts it served was the force behind the company’s leading distribution strategy and market share positions for over two decades,” stated Frank Sweeney, president and CEO of TDK USA Corporation. “His global-minded background and rich business experience gave him the tools to advance his long-lasting career at TDK. He was able to create an Esprit de Corps within his organization, fueling many of his team into high ranking positions today.”
During his tenure, he built long-standing industry partnerships and category leadership with major retailers such as Costco, Walmart, Target, Best Buy, Walgreens, and Tower Records based on the mutual respect for performance quality in both the artists and the technology enhancing their craft.
Koyo’s appreciation for the arts also led him to establish the Tanglewood for Kids program at the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra.
He always cherished his time with his family and is survived by his spouse, children, and grandchildren.
