Upcoming leadership changes have been announced for Universal Studios Japan and will be effective starting on June 1, 2025.
JL Bonnier
JL Bonner is being promoted from his current position of Universal Studios Japan as President, CEO to the position of President, COO, Pacific Rim where he will oversee the teams and overall operations of Universal Studios Japan, Universal Beijing Resort, and Universal Studios Hollywood.
Bonnier began his career as CFO for the Parks division. Among his accomplishments are the Comcast acquisition of Universal Studios Japan in 2015 and directing the plan which helped USJ become the most attended park in Asia and third highest in the world over the past year.
He had this to say about the promotion:
I have been at Universal Studios Japan for over nine years and have greatly enjoyed my time in Japan and at Universal Studios Japan. We accomplished a lot and the park is in great shape and very well-positioned to continue its trajectory of being a top travel destination in Japan as well as in the entire Pacific region. I want to thank all team members, guests, partners and our community for making USJ such an amazing place.
JL Bonnier
Bonnier takes the place of Tom Mehrmann who has been in the role since January 2022.
Taku Murayama
Taku Murayama will now serve as the Executive Vice President & General Manager at USJ LLC to lead Universal Studios Japan, a promotion from his current position of Executive Officer and Senior Vice President CMO.
Murayama began his career in the parks as a trainee in the leadership development program at Universal Parks & Resorts in Florida. He officially joined the team upon the establishment of USJ and was crucial to several marketing endeavors throughout the company. In 2020, he was promoted to his current position where he was pivotal in navigating the COVID-19 Pandemic. Murayama has also led several other initiatives revolving around guest experiences and community involvement.
I am honored to assume the position of EVP and GM as of June 1, 2025, and have a chance to lead this Destination, which is a strong part of Universal Destinations & Experiences.
Taku Murayama
Today, our park welcomes an unprecedented number of guests from both Japan and around the world, solidifying its position as the largest theme park in Asia and one of the best in the world. As we celebrate our 25th anniversary next year, we remain committed to delivering inspiring, once-in-a-lifetime experiences that go beyond imagination. I firmly believe in the no limit potential of people, and I want to support creating an environment where potential of each person can flourish.
Universal Studios Japan announced these changes in a news release on their website.
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