Haruo Naito, Leading Figure Behind Eisai's Global Healthcare Mission, Receives Japan's Prestigious Imperial Decoration

Eisai Co., Ltd.'s Representative Corporate Officer and Chief Executive Officer Haruo Naito has been recognized with one of Japan’s highest honors—the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star—during the 2025 Spring Conferment of Decorations. The ceremonial presentation will occur at the Imperial Palace on May 9, 2025.

A Patient-First Philosophy Driving Innovation

Throughout his tenure as Eisai’s CEO since 1988, Naito has established a distinctive management approach centered on understanding patient needs. This philosophy, rooted in the company’s human health care (hhc) Concept, has shaped Eisai’s strategic direction toward developing breakthrough treatments in critical therapeutic areas. The company’s portfolio now includes transformative solutions for Alzheimer’s disease and various cancer types, reflecting decades of commitment to addressing unmet medical needs on a global scale.

Naito’s leadership extends beyond pharmaceutical development. His efforts to expand medicine access across developing and emerging economies demonstrate a commitment to reducing health inequities worldwide. This inclusive approach to healthcare delivery has become a hallmark of his tenure, influencing industry standards and corporate responsibility practices.

Industry Leadership and Systemic Advocacy

Beyond Eisai’s operations, Naito has wielded considerable influence through industry associations and professional organizations. His roles have included President of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations and leadership positions within Japan’s pharmaceutical sector bodies. Through these platforms, he has championed institutional reforms affecting drug pricing systems and R&D tax incentives, contributing to policy improvements that strengthen both public health outcomes and industry sustainability.

Reflections on Recognition and Future Direction

Upon receiving the decoration, Naito emphasized that this honor reinforces his commitment to his founding mission: ensuring patients worldwide benefit from innovative treatments regardless of their economic circumstances. He remains focused on advancing efforts to alleviate health-related anxiety and narrowing healthcare disparities on a global scale.

Career Milestones and Prior Recognition

Naito’s ascent through pharmaceutical leadership began with his 1975 entry into Eisai, progressing through research and development roles before assuming the presidency in 1988. His international standing has been previously acknowledged through honors including the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) from the United Kingdom in 1999 and later elevation to Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) in 2014.

His educational foundation includes degrees from Keio University and an MBA from Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, providing the analytical and strategic framework that has guided both his corporate leadership and industry advocacy efforts.