In an emergency session of Sony board, Nobuyuki Idei agreed to step down as CEO and hand over the reigns of the company to Sir Howard Stringer, 63, who has overseen its U.S.-based movie and music operations. This move will make him the first non-Japanese CEO of Sony.

The change would take place after a shareholder vote on June 22. Stringer was also nominated for a seat on the board of directors.

Stringer was hired by Sony in 1997 to run its entertainment units, including Columbia Pictures and the then Sony Music. Stringer will also continue with his current position and the entertainment units will continue reporting to him.

Read More - USA Today