#USA #San Francisco #VIZ Media #Ken Sasaki #Brad Woods

VIZ Media Announces Leadership Transition

VIZ Media, recognized as a formidable force in the manga and anime industry, has officially launched a significant leadership transition. Ken Sasaki, who has served as the CEO for an impressive 13 years, has now stepped into the role of Chairman and Executive Advisor. In his place, Brad Woods has been appointed as the new President and Chief Executive Officer.

A New Era Begins

This transition is more than just a change in titles; it signifies a pivotal moment in VIZ Media's evolution as a leading global player in the realm of Japanese pop culture. Under Sasaki's visionary leadership, VIZ Media transformed from a specialized publisher into a dominant entity, championing the genres of manga and anime across North American, UK, Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand markets. His tenure was marked by landmark industry partnerships and groundbreaking digital strategies that propelled these art forms into the mainstream.

Sasaki's new role as Chairman and Executive Advisor will allow him to continue influencing the company's strategic direction, guiding it toward further growth in international markets. With an MBA from Stanford and extensive experience in both Japan and the United States, Sasaki remains committed to expanding VIZ's impact on global pop culture.

"What we've built at VIZ Media is nothing short of extraordinary," said Sasaki. "Manga and anime have become global phenomena, and VIZ is at the center of this movement. With Brad Woods taking the lead, VIZ is poised to expand its influence in ways the industry has never seen before."

Brad Woods: The New Visionary

Taking on the role of President and CEO, Brad Woods brings over 25 years of experience in the entertainment sector, including a decade spent at VIZ Media. Woods has been instrumental in popularizing manga and anime, making them mainstays of modern entertainment. His expertise encompasses franchise expansion, digital innovation, and consumer engagement, which he demonstrated through record-breaking sales initiatives and strategic brand partnerships.

Before joining VIZ, Woods held senior positions at major companies like Mattel, DreamWorks, and Warner Bros. His strong background in franchise management and global brand growth positions him to lead VIZ Media into a new chapter.

"Anime and manga are no longer niche—they are global cultural forces shaping entertainment, fashion, gaming, and beyond," Woods stated. "With VIZ Media's unparalleled catalog and commitment to innovation, we are poised to reach broader audiences and set new industry standards. I’m honored to lead VIZ into this next chapter."

About VIZ Media

As the leading distributor of manga and anime, VIZ Media has positioned itself as the heart of Japanese pop culture, bringing fans the latest, the greatest, and the most influential works in these genres. The company prides itself on collaborating with many talented storytellers and artists, impacting various industries from publishing to gaming.

VIZ Media has also garnered accolades as a Most Loved Workplace® in America and featured in Inc. Magazine's list of Best Workplaces, further solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for fans and creators alike.

For more insights and updates, visit VIZ Media's official site.