SHERIDAN, WYOMING – May 7, 2025 – Olympus Corporation has announced key changes to its leadership structure, including the appointment of Bob White as a new Representative Executive Officer, President, and Chief Executive Officer, effective June 1, 2025. The company also revealed a change in the responsibilities of Yasuo Takeuchi, who will continue in his roles as Director, Representative Executive Officer, Executive Chairperson, and ESG Officer. These changes come as part of Olympus’s ongoing efforts to drive its transformation and growth in the global MedTech sector.
New Leadership Structure to Drive Olympus’s Transformation
The Nominating Committee at Olympus, supported by the newly established Advisory Search Committee, has carefully selected Bob White for the role of Representative Executive Officer and CEO. The Advisory Search Committee, which includes three outside directors with extensive global MedTech experience, conducted a rigorous succession process to identify the most suitable candidate for the role. This decision comes after a thorough review of leadership qualities such as experience in corporate and cultural change, industry leadership, and the ability to accelerate Olympus’s growth.
“As a global leader in the MedTech industry, it is imperative that we continue to evolve our leadership to ensure Olympus is well-positioned for sustained growth. Bob White brings invaluable experience in leading transformations within the healthcare sector, making him an ideal fit to help guide Olympus into its next chapter,” said the Nominating Committee in a statement.
Key Leadership Changes and Appointments
Starting on June 1, 2025, the new leadership structure at Olympus will be as follows:
- Yasuo Takeuchi will retain his role as Director, Representative Executive Officer, Executive Chairperson, and ESG Officer, focusing on the company’s broader strategic initiatives and sustainable growth.
- Bob White will take on the role of Representative Executive Officer, President, and Chief Executive Officer, driving the company’s operational performance and corporate strategy.
Bob White’s extensive career in the global healthcare sector includes leadership roles at industry giants such as Medtronic, GE Healthcare, and Covidien. His experience spans key positions, from Executive Vice President at Medtronic to his current board memberships, where he has played a critical role in corporate transformation and market expansion.
New Director Candidate to Join the Board
As part of its governance enhancement efforts, Olympus also announced the nomination of Bob White as a new Director candidate. His appointment is subject to approval at the upcoming General Meeting of Shareholders, scheduled for June 2025.
Mr. White’s deep expertise in global management and his experience driving corporate change across diverse markets will be instrumental in strengthening Olympus’s decision-making processes. His leadership track record, particularly in Japan, is expected to contribute to the continued success of Olympus in the competitive MedTech industry.
Executive Leadership Team Expansion
The new executive leadership team, effective June 1, 2025, will also include key appointments across various functional areas:
- John de Csepel – Executive Officer and Chief Medical Officer
- Frank Drewalowski – Executive Officer and Gastrointestinal Solutions
- Tatsuya Izumi – Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer
- Gabriela Kaynor – Executive Officer and Chief Strategy Officer
- Tetsuo Kobayashi – Executive Officer and Chief Manufacturing and Supply Officer
- Seiji Kuramoto – Executive Officer and Surgical and Interventional Solutions
- Syed Naveed – Executive Officer and Chief Technology Officer
- Shigeto Ohtsuki – Executive Officer and Chief Human Resources Officer
- Boris Shkolnik – Executive Officer and Chief Quality Officer
- Neil Boyden Tanner – Executive Officer and Global General Counsel
Looking Ahead: Strengthening Olympus’s Market Position
The leadership transitions at Olympus represent a significant step in the company’s commitment to driving innovation, operational efficiency, and sustained growth in the global MedTech market. With Bob White’s appointment as CEO, the company aims to build on its legacy of leadership in medical technologies while further accelerating its efforts in transforming the healthcare sector.
For more information on Olympus’s leadership changes and corporate strategy, please visit Olympus Corporation’s official website.