Takeda appoints Julie Kim as successor to CEO Christophe Weber

JAPAN/USA – Takeda, a global pharmaceutical leader, has announced that its Board of Directors has unanimously chosen Julie Kim to succeed Christophe Weber as the company’s president, chief executive officer (CEO), and representative director.

Kim, who currently serves as the president of Takeda’s U.S. Business Unit, will officially take over in June 2026 when Weber retires.

As part of this transition, Kim will also be proposed for election to the Board at Takeda’s Annual General Shareholders Meeting in June 2026.

She has been a key member of the Takeda Executive Team since 2019 and has led the U.S. Business Unit as president and country head since 2022.

 With 30 years of experience in healthcare, she has held leadership positions at global, regional, and country levels, covering various therapeutic areas, international market access, marketing, and business development.

Weber, who joined Takeda in April 2014 as chief operating officer, became president and representative director in June 2014 before assuming the CEO role in April 2015.

Under his leadership, the company expanded its global presence, strengthened research and development (R&D), and fostered an inclusive corporate culture.

His tenure transformed Takeda into a competitive, R&D-driven biopharmaceutical company with a sustainable long-term business model.

Masami Iijima, chair of the Board of Directors and the Nomination Committee, praised Weber’s contributions, stating that his 12 years of leadership had significantly shaped Takeda’s global standing.

He emphasized that the Board selected Kim after a rigorous multi-year succession process, determining that she was the best candidate from a strong pool of internal and external contenders.

Iijima expressed confidence in her ability to uphold Takeda’s values and continue expanding its impact worldwide.

Weber also voiced his support for Kim, highlighting that he has worked closely with her for six years and witnessed her dedication, intellect, and leadership firsthand.

He noted that the timing of this transition aligns with Takeda’s anticipated product launches in late 2026 and the planned retirement of some independent directors.

In response to her appointment, Kim expressed gratitude for the Board’s confidence and appreciation for Weber’s leadership.

She described Takeda as a unique company with a rich 240-year heritage and a strong corporate culture.

Looking ahead, she is eager to guide the company into its next phase, working alongside its talented team to create lasting value for patients, shareholders, and society. 

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