Mitsubishi Chemical Group CEO Manabu Chikumoto Receives International Palladium Medal

The Société de Chimie Industrielle's highest honor recognizes distinguished leadership and lasting contributions to the global chemical industry

NEW YORK, Nov. 13, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Mitsubishi Chemical Group Corporation President and CEO Manabu Chikumoto was honored on Nov. 10 with the 2026 International Palladium Medal, the highest honor awarded by the Société de Chimie Industrielle and one of the chemical industry's most prestigious distinctions. Presented biennially since 1958, the medal recognizes individuals whose leadership, achievements and contributions have advanced the global chemical industry while furthering the international mission of the Société.

The award is widely regarded as one of the chemical industry's most respected honors. Over the past six decades, it has been presented to a select group of industry leaders whose vision, innovation and stewardship have helped shape the direction of the global chemical sector. Mr. Chikumoto joins a distinguished roster of recipients that includes executives from companies such as Dow, DuPont, BASF, Eastman, FMC and Air Products.

Mr. Chikumoto was selected for the award in recognition of his distinguished contributions to the chemical industry and his leadership in advancing Mitsubishi Chemical Group's strategic transformation. Over nearly four decades with the company, he has held leadership positions spanning chemical operations, international business management and corporate strategy before becoming President and CEO in April 2024. Under his leadership, Mitsubishi Chemical Group has strengthened its focus on specialty chemicals, accelerated sustainability initiatives and continued its evolution as a global leader in innovative materials and solutions.

Mr. Chikumoto became President and CEO of Mitsubishi Chemical Group in April 2024 following leadership roles spanning the company's chemical businesses, international operations and corporate strategy functions. He is also Chairperson of the Japan Petrochemical Industry Association. Under his leadership, the company has accelerated its transformation into a global leader in specialty chemicals while strengthening its commitment to sustainability and innovation. Mitsubishi Chemical Group was also included on the CDP Climate Change A List—the program's highest rating—in recognition of its leadership in climate-related disclosures, understanding of environmental risks, progress toward corporate targets, climate-mitigation contributions, carbon-neutrality initiatives and transparency.

"I am deeply honored to receive the International Palladium Medal," said Mr. Chikumoto. "This recognition reflects the dedication and accomplishments of colleagues throughout Mitsubishi Chemical Group who work every day to advance innovation, deliver sustainable solutions and create value for society. I am proud to accept this honor on behalf of our employees around the world."

The medal was presented during a black-tie dinner held in Lincoln Hall at New York's Union League Club, where industry leaders, academic representatives, scientists and business executives gathered to celebrate Mr. Chikumoto's nearly four decades of service to the chemical industry.

The evening began with a cocktail reception, followed by the presentation of ceremonial scholarship checks recognizing the Société de Chimie Industrielle's commitment to supporting the next generation of scientific and engineering talent.

A highlight of the evening was a fireside conversation with Mr. Chikumoto, moderated by Peter Young, President of Société de Chimie Industrielle, which explored and provided attendees with insights from his extensive leadership experience in chemical manufacturing, global business operations and corporate strategy.

About Mitsubishi Chemical Group

Mitsubishi Chemical Group Corporation (TSE: 4188) is a specialty materials group with an unwavering commitment to lead with innovative solutions to achieve KAITEKI, the well-being of people and the planet. We bring deep expertise and material science leadership in core market segments such as mobility, digital, medical and food. Together with around 57,000 employees, we enable industry transformation, technology breakthroughs and longer, more fruitful lives for us all.

SOURCE Mitsubishi Chemical Group