Sumitomo Mitsui Finance and Leasing (SMFL), a member of SMBC Group, has appointed Koichi “Ko” Tanaka as head of SMFL U.S.’s New York Branch. Tanaka is a corporate finance executive with over 30 years of investment banking and leasing experience. Most of his career was spent with Sumitomo Mitsui Banking (SMBC) in various key leadership roles across the globe before he transferred to SMFL in Tokyo in 2021.

Tanaka has a deep understanding of the U.S. market as he served as the head of the structured finance group of SMBC New York and managed SMBC’s leasing subsidiary from 2001 to 2009. In his last position with SMFL in Japan, he led the strategy and business development efforts of the transportation business unit.

“We are delighted to welcome Ko to our organization during a time of great opportunity for SMFL,” Cecile Latouche, executive director of business planning, said. “Ko is a seasoned executive with an international background, a wealth of experience and expertise in business strategy and corporate development in the finance industry. Ko’s leadership and strategic vision will be key to drive SMFL US strategic growth.”

“I am delighted to have this wonderful opportunity to work in New York after 15 years,” Tanaka said. “I look forward to growing the business with my colleagues over the next few years.”