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The Yamaha Women’s Integrated Network (YWIN) recently held an on-site meeting at the Cypress, California office. The 18-month-long YWIN program is designed to empower and develop female senior managers across Yamaha companies in North America. By emphasizing coaching over traditional training, sessions are centered around real-world challenges and best practices where the coach and participants co-create desired results. The program has achieved great success since its 2014 launch, thanks to Kim’s vision and dedication. The alumni and current class include over 50 female employees across various YMUS business areas, as well as YMMC, YPPI, Bennett Marine, Skeeter Boats, G3 Boats, Yamaha Motor Finance Corpora-tion, U.S.A., and Yamaha Motor Corporation Canada.

During last week’s session, members of the current YWIN program were given exclusive presentations from three Yamaha lead-ers who gave overviews of their respective businesses as well as their own unique leadership advice. The presenters included Jeff Young, YMFC President & YMC Director, Tom Kawaguchi, Vice President, Accounting, Tax, Corporate Planning, & Demand Chain, and Kathryn Freytag, Vice President, Information Strategy Division (ISD). In addition, the New Business Development team also gave a brief overview of their area and YEX demonstration, which is exclusive to Cypress.

This session was particularly special because it included a celebration and retirement send-off for Kim Ruiz, YMUS CFO & Sr. Vice President of Finance & Corporate Planning. Kim heard from YWIN alumni, Chris Stehman, and Nobu Saito, who want-ed to express their sincere thanks and appreciation for Kim’s contributions. Kim also acknowledged those who have been instrumental in YWIN success such as Nanette Holihan and Marina Torres.

Before Kim leaves Yamaha she ensured that the vision and impact that YWIN has had will continue to flourish for those upcoming Yamaha leaders. Last year she appointed Carrie Kosztowny, YMFC-US Group Manager, Commercial Finance & Leasing, Andrea Tetto, Director of Marine Planning, and Tricia Emurian, Motorsports Senior Project Manager to head the YWIN Steering Committee. Through their unified efforts, they have significantly improved the program, and they remain dedi-cated to ensuring its unwavering alignment with the Vision, Mission, and Values.

Yamaha thanks Kim Ruiz for her endless contributions to the company and for her passionate leadership and mentorship geared at the advancement of many women at Yamaha and wish her the best for a retirement era filled with both relaxation and adventure!

Bob Starr, Yamaha Motor U.S.A. (YMUS)