“Resilience must be built before a crisis.”
Ruslan Sydorenko, Director, Nissan Motor Ukraine LLC
Nissan Motor, whose journey reflects strength, adaptability, and resilience, has been one of GrECo Ukraine’s partners since 2022. To celebrate this partnership, Alexander Laukart, General Manager at GrECo Ukraine, sat down with Ruslan Sydorenko to explore Nissan’s evolution, risk strategies, and vision for the future.
Navigating Historical Change
Laukart: Over the past century, Central and Eastern Europe has experienced profound historical shifts. How did Nissan adapt to some of these events?
Sydorenko: The region’s history has indeed been turbulent. For Nissan, post-war reconstruction laid the groundwork for global expansion. Entering European markets was a natural progression. In Ukraine, our official representation began in 2005. Since then, we’ve built a robust dealer network, enhanced logistics, and upheld the highest standards in vehicle sales and after-sales service. Despite facing macroeconomic crises, a pandemic, and war, we’ve remained resilient through strategic planning, digitalisation, and agile risk management.
Industry Risk Challenges
Laukart: What have been the most significant risk challenges your industry has faced over the years, and how did you overcome them?
Sydorenko: The automotive industry has always operated in a complex and high-risk environment. Global fuel crises, financial recessions, worldwide supply chain issues (such as the microchip shortage), and shifting consumer preferences have all shaped the face of the industry.
In Ukraine, the most serious challenge has been the war. It is a multifaceted crisis that encompasses the safety of people, protection of property, logistics, and reputational risks. We overcame these challenges through transparent communication, clear crisis management, collaboration with partners, and flexible supply chain management.
Another strategic challenge is the transition to electrification. This requires rethinking not only the products but also risk management models in the context of technological, environmental, and regulatory responsibility.
Innovation and Transformation
Laukart: What inventions over the last 100 years have revolutionised your industry?
Sydorenko: Several innovations have reshaped automotive mobility. The launch of the Nissan LEAF, the world’s first mass-produced electric car, was a significant milestone. Safety systems like ABS, airbags, and ADAS have significantly improved road safety. Digitalisation – from telematics to remote software updates – has transformed customer experience. And, robotic automation and advanced battery technologies have also played a vital role in making transportation more sustainable and efficient.
Evolving Risk Management
Laukart: How has Nissan’s approach to risk management evolved over time?
Sydorenko: Risk management has shifted from asset protection to a strategic function encompassing operational, financial, cyber, ESG, and reputational risks. We have implemented proactive risk management with regular crisis scenario modelling, internal audits, risk committees, and data integration into decision-making processes.
The key lesson is that resilience must be built before a crisis. In Ukraine, this principle has proven essential – preparedness, transparency, and partnership enable us not only to survive but also to adapt and grow under extraordinary conditions.
Looking Ahead
Laukart: What are your predictions for the future risk landscape, and how will Nissan stay resilient and innovative?
Sydorenko: We anticipate three major influences: climate change and environmental regulation, technological transformation, and geopolitical and cyber threats. These will demand new safety standards and supply chain flexibility.
Nissan is investing in innovation across both product and operational segments: strengthening ESG commitments, enhancing digital ecosystems, and fortifying supply chains. We believe that innovation must go hand in hand with responsibility. This balance is what will help Nissan remain a reliable partner for customers, even in the face of future challenges.
About Nissan Motor Ukraine
Founded in 2005, Nissan Motor Ukraine is the official subsidiary of Nissan in Ukraine, responsible for importing vehicles and spare parts, managing logistics and customs clearance, and supporting a nationwide dealer network. The company oversees marketing strategy, advertising, and provides technical support for after-sales service, ensuring the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation is upheld across the Ukrainian market.
