Billionaire Profile
Nobutada Saji
Global Rank
#2655

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Nobutada Saji

CEO, Suntory Holdings
JP
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.3B
As of December 2025
Age
80
Source
Beverages
Industry
food-beverage
Citizenship
JP

Biography

Nobutada Saji, born November 25, 1945, is a prominent Japanese businessman and the current Chairman of Suntory Holdings, a global leader in the beverage industry. With a net worth of $1.3 billion, Saji's wealth stems from his family's legacy in the Beverages industry. His career began with his graduation from Keio University with a Bachelor of Economics and later, he earned a Master of Business Administration from the Anderson School of Management. Saji became President of Suntory in 2001, the family-owned brewing, distilling, and drinks group, and has been instrumental in its global expansion through strategic acquisitions, including Beam Inc. in 2014. His leadership has led to significant growth, including a revenue of $20.3 billion in 2024 for Suntory Holdings. Saji also serves as Chairman of Ad Council Japan, demonstrating his commitment to social responsibility.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Nobutada Saji was born on November 25, 1945, in Japan. He is the grandson of Shinjiro Torii, the founder of Suntory, a renowned Japanese beverage company. Saji's early life laid the foundation for his future success in the business world, growing up in a family with a rich legacy.

Rise to Success

Saji's career began after graduating from Koyo Gakuin High School and Keio University with a Bachelor of Economics degree. He later obtained an MBA from Anderson School of Management. In 2001, Saji took the helm of Suntory Ltd. as President, carrying on his grandfather's legacy. Under his leadership, Suntory experienced substantial growth, solidifying its position as a leading player in the beverage industry. In 2014, Suntory acquired Beam Inc., the maker of Jim Beam and Maker's Mark bourbon, for $16 billion, further expanding Suntory's global presence.

Key Business Strategies

Saji's leadership at Suntory has been marked by strategic acquisitions and a focus on international expansion. His tenure included acquiring the French Orangina Schweppes Group in 2009 and the U.S. Beam Inc. in 2014. These moves significantly boosted Suntory's global reach and diversified its product portfolio. Saji has also overseen efforts to innovate and develop new products to meet changing consumer demands.

Philanthropy

Saji actively contributes to society through philanthropic endeavors. He serves as the Chairman of Ad Council Japan, demonstrating his commitment to social responsibility and community development. Suntory has a history of supporting the arts and community initiatives, further reflecting Saji's commitment to enriching people's lives.

Career Milestones

1945

Birth

Born in Japan.

2001

President of Suntory Ltd.

Assumed the role of President, taking the reins of the company founded by his grandfather.

2014

Acquisition of Beam Inc.

Oversaw the acquisition of Beam Inc., significantly boosting Suntory's global presence.

2016

Stepped Down as President

Stepped down as President.

2023

Elected Advisory Director of Carnegie Hall

Elected as an Advisory Director of Carnegie Hall.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education and Research

Suntory Prize for Social Sciences and Humanities

Undisclosed

Saji provides awards through the Suntory Foundation.

Community and Culture

Suntory Prize for Community Cultural Activities

Undisclosed

Saji provides awards through the Suntory Foundation.

Disaster Relief

Donations to Earthquake Victims

$6.8B

Donated 4.3 billion yen in 2011, two billion yen in 2012, and 2.5 billion yen in 2013 to Japan's earthquake victims.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""Ever since I was a child, I was brought up with the notion that our business is always related to the happiness of people,""

Leadership Principles

Commitment to Quality

Suntory has a commitment to quality.

Innovation

Suntory has a commitment to innovation.

Sustainability

Suntory has a commitment to sustainability.