Makiko Ono assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer at Suntory Beverage and Food in March 2023, marking a historic moment for both the company and Japan's corporate landscape. Suntory Beverage and Food, a prominent soft drinks company within the expansive Suntory Group—a Japanese conglomerate renowned for its iconic whiskies such as Jim Beam and The Macallan—stands tall with a market cap exceeding 7 billion dollars.
The company, aiming to solidify its position as Japan's second-largest drinks-maker, has set ambitious targets for growth, eyeing $5 billion in mergers and acquisitions over the next few years. In 2022, Suntory Beverage and Food reported a robust revenue of approximately $10 billion, showcasing its formidable presence in the market.
Notably, Ono's ascent to the position of CEO marks a significant milestone as she becomes the company's first female chief executive. In a country where, as of 2022, less than 1% of listed companies on the Tokyo Stock Exchange boast a female CEO, her appointment is a testament to the evolving dynamics of corporate leadership.
Ono’s journey within Suntory dates back to 1982 when she joined the mergers and acquisition team. Her tenure has been marked by instrumental contributions, including the acquisition of a French winery. She further expanded the company's global footprint by overseeing foreign acquisitions and fostering key partnerships with brands like Lucozade, Ribena, and Orangina.
In 2009, she played a pivotal role as the company acquired Orangina, and her prowess led to her appointment as the General Director in 2020. Her commitment to fostering diversity and empowering women within the corporate sphere is evident in her ambitious goal for the company: by 2030, she envisions that 30% of all managers in the company will be female, a significant leap from the current 13%.
Ono, a graduate in Portuguese from the University of Tokyo, has not only excelled in her corporate journey but has also been recognized on the global stage. Time magazine acknowledged her influence by naming her one of the World's 100 Most Powerful Women in 2023, a recognition further echoed by Forbes, placing her among their esteemed Power Women.
Breaking barriers extends beyond the boardroom for Ono, as her role as CEO makes Suntory the largest listed Japanese company with a woman at the helm. Her achievements and accolades serve as an inspiration, demonstrating that meritocracy and dedication can indeed pave the way for unprecedented success in the corporate world.
As Ono continues to navigate the dynamic landscape of the beverage and food industry, her commitment to diversity and inclusivity stands as a beacon for aspiring leaders, echoing the possibility of a more inclusive and representative future in corporate Japan.