114

without a degree of forward thinking . For Japanese pharmaceutical firm Takeda , this has been no more apparent than in the past four of these years .

An institution in Japan , Takeda ’ s rich journey spanning more than two centuries has exponentially gathered pace during the last decade thanks to a series of acquisitions . However , in order to make such growth sustainable for the long term , CEO Yasuchika Hasegawa decided in 2014 that a new , globalised approach was required .

Fast-forward to 2018 , and a centralised procurement function is responsible for more than $ 6bn of Takeda spend – the engine room driving the company ’ s expansion in existing and new markets .

Bernadette Maier is Takeda ’ s Head of Procurement for Emerging Markets . Based in Singapore , she joined the firm in December 2016 , lured by a combination of a legendary heritage and the chance to play a leading role in new market entries .

Her mission ? To utilise and develop Takeda ’ s post-transformation procurement setup and generate value for both business and patient .

“ The vision which goes across all Takeda procurement is really being inspired by the patients we serve ,”

AUGUST 2018