Kyowa Hakko Bio Italia named EMEA hub in drive for health science growth
Kyowa Hakko Bio has announced a major strategic shift, positioning Kyowa Hakko Bio Italia (KHIT) as its central commercial hub for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA).
The move follows the successful integration of the company’s former German affiliate and marks a significant milestone in Kyowa’s transformation into a more agile, science-driven health ingredients leader.
With this transition, KHIT will lead Kyowa’s regional operations, accelerating growth in the health science and dietary supplement sectors — particularly through its flagship Cognizin Citicoline portfolio. The new structure is designed to streamline decision-making, enhance customer responsiveness, and strengthen scientific and commercial collaboration across EMEA.
Nicola Urso, a 25-year Kyowa veteran, has been appointed president of KHIT. Known for his strategic foresight and operational leadership, Urso will oversee KHIT’s expanded mandate, which includes market expansion, digital transformation, and talent development.
“This evolution marks a new chapter in our European journey,” said Urso. “With a more agile structure and a clear regional remit, KHIT is poised to deliver greater scientific value to customers across EMEA, faster and more effectively than ever before.”
A cornerstone of the transformation is the creation of a dedicated scientific marketing function, led by Dr Eri Nakazaki. This team will translate Kyowa’s global R&D into actionable claims, regulatory-aligned messaging, and customer-facing programmes.
Key developments at KHIT include:
Unified EMEA gateway: KHIT becomes Kyowa’s single commercial platform for the region, with local GMP stock approved by health authorities to ensure faster, more consistent market access.
Health science acceleration: a sharpened focus on Citicoline and adjacent health science opportunities to meet growing demand for cognitive and wellness solutions.
Science marketing capability: a new function to enhance evidence-based storytelling and support regulatory-compliant innovation.
Enhanced partner readiness: stronger infrastructure to co-develop and scale solutions with global food, beverage, and supplement brands.
KHIT’s mission is to improve health and well-being across EMEA by delivering trusted, science-backed ingredients. Its vision is to serve as Kyowa’s European gateway, recognised for scientific excellence, customer-centric execution, and sustainable growth.
“By combining world-class science with sharper execution, Kyowa Hakko Bio Italia is set to elevate Kyowa’s presence and performance across EMEA,” Urso added.
