Daiichi Sankyo Names Hiroyuki Okuzawa as New CEO, with Sunao Manabe Stepping Into Chairman Role

Japanese pharmaceutical giant Daiichi Sankyo has announced a major leadership restructuring, effective April 1, 2025. The company has appointed Hiroyuki Okuzawa as Chief Executive Officer, while Sunao Manabe, the current CEO, will take on the roles of Representative Director and Executive Chairperson. This strategic move demonstrates the company’s confidence in its next growth phase and its dedication to strengthening corporate governance.

Leadership Transition Marks a New Strategic Era

Okuzawa, a 62-year-old executive who has been with Daiichi Sankyo since 1986, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. Before becoming CEO, he served as Representative Director, President, and Chief Operating Officer starting in 2023. His background also includes a two-year tenure as Chief Financial Officer, giving him strong financial expertise alongside operational leadership. The transition from Sunao Manabe from CEO to Executive Chairperson allows for a well-structured succession plan that maintains continuity while bringing fresh leadership perspectives.

Building on Oncology Expansion and a Five-Year Vision

This leadership change comes at a pivotal point in Daiichi Sankyo’s strategic roadmap. The company is nearing the end of its current five-year business plan (FY2021-2025), which has seen significant milestones achieved through rapid global expansion of its oncology portfolio. As the organization approaches the final year of this plan, it is also laying the groundwork for the next five-year strategic initiative (FY2026-2030). The Board of Directors officially approved Okuzawa’s appointment at the January 31 board meeting, ensuring management continuity during the transition.

Okuzawa’s Path to the Top

In his opening remarks as the incoming CEO, Okuzawa outlined an ambitious vision extending to 2035. He emphasized his commitment to leveraging Daiichi Sankyo’s scientific and technological strengths while fostering global talent development. “Building on this foundation, I will continue to utilize Daiichi Sankyo’s expertise in science and technology, and I will focus on developing our talent worldwide. Under my leadership, we will establish a vision for 2035 and develop a new five-year business plan (FY2026-2030), aiming to improve quality of life globally,” he stated. This forward-looking approach highlights the company’s determination to maintain its competitive edge in the pharmaceutical industry.

At the time of the announcement, Daiichi Sankyo’s shares traded at 4,299.00 yen in Tokyo, reflecting a 2.56 percent decrease in market value.