Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) announced that Janette Hostettler, group vice president at TMNA and vice president of Manufacturing at Toyota Kentucky, will retire on September 15, 2025.
Over her 25-year career, Hostettler held pivotal leadership roles across multiple Toyota plants and oversaw production of key models like the Sienna, Highlander, Sequoia, Mazda CX-50, and Corolla Cross. She played a central role in launching the joint venture Mazda Toyota Manufacturing (MTM) facility in Alabama and recently helped lead operations at Toyota’s largest global manufacturing plant in Kentucky. Recognized with industry honors, including induction into the Women in Manufacturing Hall of Fame, Hostettler also contributed to workforce development and STEM education through nonprofit and board service.
Here’s why it matters:
Leadership changes at Toyota manufacturing facilities can impact production timelines, vehicle allocation, and future supply planning for dealers. Hostettler’s retirement signals the upcoming transition of one of the most influential figures behind Toyota’s U.S. vehicle assembly operations. Her oversight included high-volume, dealer-reliant nameplates such as the Highlander and Sienna, as well as managing capacity expansions that directly affect delivery schedules and product availability on dealer lots. As Toyota balances strong demand and evolving production strategies, dealer awareness of executive shifts in manufacturing leadership is crucial to forecasting inventory flows and customer satisfaction.
Key takeaways
- Retirement date set
Janette Hostettler will retire on Sept. 15, 2025, ending a 25-year career with Toyota that spanned multiple U.S. manufacturing plants. - Key facility leadership
Hostettler currently leads Toyota Kentucky, the company’s largest global manufacturing site, overseeing vehicle output and workforce operations. - SUV launch experience
She played a critical role in launching popular models, including the Sienna, Highlander, Sequoia, CX-50, and Corolla Cross. - Manufacturing impact beyond Toyota
Hostettler helped launch the joint Mazda Toyota plant in Alabama and trained 4,000 employees during the plant’s ramp-up phase. - Industry recognition and mentorship
A Hall of Fame honoree, she has championed women in manufacturing and served on boards supporting education and workforce development.
