Akesa has taken another major step in its Japan and Asia-Pacific (JAPAC) growth journey with the appointment of Chisako Mizutani as Country Manager, Japan to spearhead local operations. With more than two decades of leadership experience working with contract research organisations (CROs), Chisako will play a pivotal role in deepening Akesa’s capabilities across one of the world’s most complex and opportunity-rich clinical research markets.
Why Japan matters in global clinical trials
Japan is widely recognised as a critical hub for clinical research and drug development. The country has one of the world’s largest pharmaceutical markets, a highly advanced healthcare system, and a growing portfolio of global clinical trials. Yet, Japan also presents unique challenges for clinical trial sponsors, from navigating complex regulatory requirements, to managing timelines, costs, and cultural expectations.
As global sponsors look to expand their clinical research programs into Japan and the wider APAC region , they require trusted local partners that can provide both operational know-how and regulatory assurance. Akesa’s investment in senior leadership in Japan reflects its commitment to being that partner, ensuring clients can rely on compliant, resilient supply-chain solutions that deliver medicines to patients without disruption.
A proven leader in CRO operations
Ms Mizutani brings an exceptional track record that aligns directly with this vision. Most recently, she served as Senior Director, Customer Alliance at IQVIA Japan, where she managed 15–20 clinical trial projects at any one time. Her role extended beyond project oversight – providing strategic advice to project teams, consultation on risks identified in trial reviews, and working closely with sponsors across Japan, the US, and Europe.
She has managed Phase I–III clinical studies across a broad spectrum of therapeutic areas, including oncology, cardiovascular, immunology, rare diseases, and infectious diseases.
Her leadership extends beyond clinical operations. Ms Mizutani has managed teams of up to 150 professionals, implemented project management frameworks, and presented on data management practices at industry conferences. She also brings the perspective of a qualified pharmacist, grounding her operational expertise in a solid foundation of pharmaceutical science.
Aligning with Akesa’s JAPAC strategy
For Akesa, Chisako’s appointment is not just about adding senior talent, it’s about reinforcing a long-term strategy to build local leadership within JAPAC markets. Since its founding in 2014, Akesa has been a trusted partner in clinical trial supply and pharmaceutical services, with a strong emphasis on tailoring solutions to the needs of each region.
“Japan is central to Akesa’s JAPAC expansion strategy,” said George Vlachos, Co-CEO of Akesa. “The country represents both opportunity and complexity. By appointing an executive of Chisako’s calibre, we’re ensuring our partners benefit from local expertise deeply connected to global research needs. Her leadership strengthens Akesa’s ability to deliver compliant, high-quality clinical trial supply solutions in Japan and across the wider region.”
Meeting the rising demand for JAPAC clinical trial supply
The timing of this appointment is significant. JAPAC continues to expand its share of global research activity, driven by diverse patient populations, advanced healthcare infrastructure, and increasing government support for clinical innovation. At the same time, supply chain resilience and regulatory compliance are becoming more critical than ever in ensuring that trials run smoothly.
Akesa’s approach is to combine regional expertise with global reach. By investing in leaders like Chisako Mizutani, the company is building a foundation that supports sponsors not just in Japan, but across interconnected markets such as Singapore, South Korea, Australia, and beyond.
For sponsors, that means greater confidence in clinical trial execution — from sourcing and procurement of medicines, through to logistics, quality assurance, and regulatory navigation.
Looking ahead
As Akesa grows its JAPAC presence, the appointment of Chisako Mizutani signals a clear message: the company is committed to investing in the people, processes, and partnerships that will define the future of clinical trial supply.
By blending local expertise with a global perspective, Akesa is not just responding to demand — it is shaping the future of clinical research in the region.
