Leadership Transition at Daiichi Sankyo: Hiroyuki Okuzawa Takes the Helm as New CEO

Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd announced a significant executive reshuffle on Friday, with 62-year-old Hiroyuki Okuzawa set to assume the role of Chief Executive Officer effective April 1, marking a pivotal moment in the Japanese pharmaceutical company’s strategic evolution.

The Outgoing Leader and Transition Timeline

Sunao Manabe, the current Representative Director, Executive Chairperson and CEO, will step down from his operational role but retain significant influence within the company’s governance structure. Manabe will transition to the position of Representative Director and Executive Chairperson, ensuring continuity in strategic oversight during the leadership change. This planned succession reflects deliberate corporate governance rather than an unexpected departure, with the April 2025 transition strategically timed to align with the company’s broader business cycle.

Okuzawa’s Credentials and Internal Rise

The newly appointed CEO brings decades of institutional knowledge to the position, having joined Daiichi Sankyo in 1986. Over his tenure, Okuzawa has accumulated diverse operational experience, serving as Chief Financial Officer for a two-year period before progressing to Representative Director and President with Chief Operating Officer responsibilities since 2023. His promotion represents an internal advancement through the company’s leadership ranks, combining financial acumen with operational expertise.

Strategic Context and Business Momentum

The leadership transition coincides with the company’s five-year business plan (FY2021-2025), which has demonstrated robust execution and successfully accelerated the global expansion of Daiichi Sankyo’s oncology portfolio. The Board of Directors formalized Okuzawa’s appointment during a January 31 board meeting, emphasizing the need to solidify achievement of FY2025 performance targets while simultaneously strengthening the overall management framework.

The April transition occurs at a critical juncture—the final year of the current strategic plan—positioning the company to simultaneously prepare for the next five-year business plan (FY2026-2030) with fresh leadership at the helm.

Vision and Strategic Direction

Okuzawa outlined his leadership priorities, stating he will build upon existing competitive advantages in scientific and technological capabilities while fostering global talent development. Under his direction, the company plans to formulate a 2035 vision alongside the upcoming five-year strategic blueprint, signaling ambitions for long-term value creation and sustained global health impact.

Market Response

Trading in Tokyo reflected a measured market reaction, with Daiichi Sankyo shares closing at 4,299.00 yen, representing a 2.56 percent decline, suggesting investors may be taking a cautious stance on the leadership change amid broader market dynamics.