Sir Philip Craven, who served as IPC President between 2001 and 2017, was ratified as a new member to the board of directors of the Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) on Thursday (14 June) at TMC's ordinary general shareholders' meeting.

To survive in this era of profound transformation, TMC has been pursuing efforts that transcend practices of the past to speedily and boldly boost business innovation. These include advancing the traditional timing of major executive changes from April to January and positioning more people from both inside and outside the company with a high level of expertise.

Sir Philip Craven said: “I am absolutely delighted to take up this position with TMC at a time when the company is leading the way globally in providing mobility for all.

“I am greatly excited and looking forward to this role and contributing to TMC’s desire to drive social inclusion through increased mobility.”

“The company’s stunning “Start Your Impossible” campaign showcases how TMC understands the importance of mobility, and how the freedom to move has a liberating effect on the thought processes and actions of people.

“I am greatly excited and looking forward to this role and contributing to TMC’s desire to drive social inclusion through increased mobility.”

Toyota has been an IPC Worldwide Paralympic Partner since November 2015 and is currently the first and only partner to support all National Paralympic Committees within the Paralympic Movement.

Last October, TMC launched “Start Your Impossible” – a global corporate campaign that aims to inspire Toyota employees, partners, and customers and connect them with the company’s core beliefs. In an age of accelerating technological and environmental developments, “Start Your Impossible” celebrates Toyota’s commitment to facing challenges in society and supports the company’s next growth phase.

Toyota believes that mobility goes beyond cars; it is about overcoming challenges and making dreams come true. The “Start Your Impossible” campaign reflects these values and highlights the company’s goal to provide freedom of mobility for all.

Sir Philip is one of four new members appointed to the nine-strong Toyota board. The three others who had their appointments ratified on Thursday were Koji Kobayashi, TMC Executive Vice President; Ikuro Sugawara, Former Vice-Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry; and Teiko Kudo, Managing Executive Officer, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation.