Drawing on Takeda’s 240-year Japanese heritage, she works to align global expertise with local needs — championing access to treatment, cross-sector collaboration, and patient-first solutions throughout the Adria region.
This year marks more than two decades of Takeda’s presence in Croatia — a milestone that reflects both continuity and commitment to the region’s evolving healthcare landscape.
Under Viktorija’s leadership, the company builds bridges between tradition and transformation, grounded in core values of integrity, perseverance, and sustainability. Whether advancing digital diagnostics, co-creating policy with local health authorities, or fostering inclusive teams across borders, she sees trust not as a byproduct of success, but as its foundation.
Last year marked Takeda’s 20th anniversary in Croatia — an important milestone that reflects both continuity and commitment. From your regional perspective, where do you see the greatest opportunities for structural improvement in healthcare, and how can companies like Takeda continue contributing to long-term, systemic change across the Adria region?
Celebrating 20 years in Croatia is a testament of Takeda’s dedication to healthcare improvement in Croatia and the region. One of the most promising opportunities lies in enhancing the healthcare outcomes for patients with rare diseases. We are actively collaborating with local health authorities, scientific and medical community, patient associations to enhance level of knowledge, drive research and development, improve access to innovative treatments, integrate digital health solutions and support diagnostics. By focusing on these areas, Takeda contributes to long-term, systemic change across the Adria region, aligning with its commitment to improving healthcare outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for patients.
Takeda’s global strategy prioritises therapeutic innovation in areas like oncology, gastroenterology, and rare diseases. How do you align this with the specific challenges and patient needs in Croatia, Slovenia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina?
We have the same priorities locally. Challenges come from a lower level of health spending compared to EU5 and need for improvement of healthcare policies in order to improve patient outcomes. By deeply understanding the local healthcare landscape and patient needs in Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, we tailor our strategies to address specific challenges. We have a number of programs to ensure early patient access to innovation in all three countries.
As a Japanese company with over 240 years of heritage, how does Takeda’s culture and philosophy influence its business practices and partnerships in this part of Europe? Do you see elements of Japanese business values resonating locally?
Absolutely, the cultural resonance between the region and Japan is profound. Both cultures emphasize the importance of family, respect for elders, and community values. Takeda’s core values — integrity, fairness, honesty, transparency, and perseverance — are deeply embedded in our local operations. These values guide our decision-making and foster strong partnerships built on trust and mutual respect. The Japanese principle of long-term thinking and sustainability is mirrored in our commitment to regional healthcare, ensuring that our efforts today lay the foundation for a healthier future.
Digital health tools and AI are transforming how care is delivered. How is Takeda using these technologies in the region, and where do you see the greatest potential for local impact?
Digital health and AI are revolutionizing healthcare delivery, and we are at the forefront of this transformation. Takeda employs these technologies to enhance diagnostics for rare diseases, drive research, and evaluate local data.
The Japanese principle of long-term thinking and sustainability is mirrored in our commitment to regional healthcare
By developing tailor-made solutions, we aim to improve diagnostic accuracy and speed, which are critical for effective treatment. The greatest potential lies in leveraging these tools to create personalized healthcare experiences, ensuring that patients receive the right care at the right time.
Patients with rare diseases still face delays in diagnosis and access to therapy in many parts of the Adria region. What is Takeda doing to help bridge these gaps and improve equity across healthcare systems?
Takeda sponsors diagnostic programs and invests in clinical research to facilitate early access to treatment. Our collaboration with local authorities ensures that we are not only co-funding treatment costs but also actively participating in policy-making to improve healthcare equity. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are crucial, and our initiatives aim to ensure that patients receive the necessary care without delay.
You manage operations across diverse healthcare systems. What leadership values help you build trust, navigate complexity, and support your teams across Croatia, Slovenia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina?
At Takeda, leadership is not just about guiding a team; it’s about fostering an environment where trust, transparency, and collaboration are paramount. I feel privileged to lead an extraordinary team that works cross-functionally and cross-country, embodying the spirit of unity and cooperation. Our success lies in our ability to leverage diverse perspectives and expertise, ensuring that we address the unique challenges each healthcare system presents.
My leadership is supported not only by a strong regional team but also by a vast network from Takeda’s global operations, providing us with a wealth of knowledge and innovation. I am fortunate to work for a company whose values align with my own. Takeda values of integrity, perseverance, and honesty are deeply ingrained in our approach, allowing us to navigate complexities with confidence and clarity. By fostering open communication and mutual respect, we empower our teams to innovate and excel, ultimately driving positive outcomes for the patients we serve. This collaborative spirit is a testament to Takeda’s commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive work environment that transcends borders and disciplines.
