Sony CEO and chairman Sir Howard Stringer has added the role of president to his portfolio, assuming direct control of its struggling electronics division.
Stringer replaces Ryoji Chubachi, who has been moved sideways as vice-chairman in charge of safety, quality and environmental issues, Sony said.
The appointment forms part of a management shake-up, which will see Sony form two new business divisions.
The network products and services group, which will include the mobile division, Sony Computer Entertainment (SCE), VAIO, and Sony Media Software and Services. It will be led by SCE chief Kazuo Hirari. The new consumer products group will include the television, digital imaging, home audio and video businesses.
The shake-up follows heavy financial losses and loss of market leadership by the Japanese electronics giant