Junro Ito Appointed Chairman of Seven & i Holdings Co.

The Peter F. Drucker & Masatoshi Ito School of Management proudly congratulates Junro Ito (MBA, 1989) on his appointment as chairman of Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd. – the parent company of Seven-Eleven and one of the world’s most iconic retail brands.

With decades of executive experience and a deep commitment to values-based leadership, Ito steps into this role at a pivotal moment for the company. His appointment is more than a professional achievement –– it marks the continuation of a family legacy that has profoundly shaped both the global retail landscape and the Drucker School.

A Drucker School alumnus and longtime executive at Seven & i, Ito has built a reputation for aligning operational excellence with a people-centered, long-term vision. As Vice President and Representative Director, he oversaw critical business areas including superstore operations and sustainability strategy. His leadership consistently reflects a core belief: business success must be grounded in responsibility — to customers, communities, and the future.

“Ito-san’s leadership embodies many of Drucker’s central ideas — chief among them, the belief that effective management starts with purpose and people,” said David Sprott, Dean of the Drucker School. “His commitment to stakeholder stewardship, ethical decision-making, and long-term thinking sets a powerful example for our students and the global business community. We are honored to count him as an alumnus.”

The Ito family’s ties to the Drucker School are deep and enduring. Junro’s father, the late Masatoshi Ito, was a pioneer of Japanese retail and a key benefactor of Claremont Graduate University. A close friend of Peter Drucker, Masatoshi helped establish and shape the institution that now bears both of their names.

That legacy continues through Junro Ito. In a letter of congratulations, CGU Interim President Michelle Bligh wrote:

“Your accomplishments continue to inspire our students and faculty, and your career stands as a powerful example of what principled leadership can achieve on the global stage. The impact of your family’s support is woven into the fabric of our institution, allowing generations of students to pursue their dreams.”

Ito assumes the chairmanship amid a period of strategic transformation for Seven & i Holdings Co., as the company responds to evolving shareholder expectations and the rapid expansion of the global retail market. Through it all, Ito remains focused on sustainable growth and long-term value — principles that mirror Drucker’s vision of management as both a human and moral enterprise.

As the Drucker School continues to educate future leaders who are dedicated to making a meaningful difference, we celebrate Chairman Ito’s achievements and look forward to his continued influence in Japan and around the world.