Boston Consulting Group (BCG) has appointed Yasushi Sasaki (pictured) as its new chair for the Asia-Pacific region, effective July 1.
Sasaki, currently leading BCG’s operations in Japan and Korea as Northeast Asia System Leader, steps into the role following the conclusion of Neeraj Aggarwal’s seven-year tenure.
Sasaki, based in Tokyo, joined BCG in 2002 and has specialised in advising financial services clients, particularly in banking, insurance, investment banking, and asset management.
His advisory work has focused on long-term strategic planning, organizational change, technology strategy, and sales optimisation.
He also served as the Asia-Pacific leader for BCG’s financial institutions practice and has contributed to firmwide transformation programs.
As chair, Sasaki will join BCG’s executive committee and other key governance bodies, positioning him to influence broader strategic direction across the region.
Under Aggarwal’s leadership, BCG’s Asia-Pacific operations experienced significant growth, with business volume reportedly doubling.
The firm expanded its capabilities in digital transformation, AI, and climate-focused consulting while placing greater emphasis on diversity and talent development.
Aggarwal also guided the regional business through pandemic-related disruptions and broader market volatility.
Reflecting on the leadership transition, Aggarwal noted Sasaki’s collaborative style and regional impact.
“I’m especially excited for the region as Sasaki-San steps into the role,” Neeraj said. “Having worked closely with him over the years, I’ve seen his thoughtful, inclusive, and bold leadership in action. He has played a central role in strengthening the Northeast Asia system – expanding our presence in Japan and Korea and deepening collaboration across the region.”
Sasaki acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasised continuity in the firm’s strategic direction.
“Thanks to Neeraj's leadership, BCG's business in Asia-Pacific is now stronger, more connected, and more future-ready than ever,” he said. “We have faced volatility, and we know more uncertainty lies ahead – but even as the winds shift, our direction remains clear. With a strong crew and a shared compass, I have no doubt we'll continue reaching new horizons – together.”
The appointment comes at a time when insurers and other financial services firms in Asia are navigating increased pressure to adapt to new technologies, regulatory changes, and evolving customer expectations.
Consulting firms like BCG are playing a growing role in supporting these organisations as they pursue digital adoption, operational efficiency, and long-term resilience.
Sasaki noted that the Asia-Pacific region is entering a decade of structural transformation, including AI-driven productivity, decarbonisation, and new supply chain models.
“Asia-Pacific is entering a pivotal decade – AI-fuelled productivity, net-zero growth plays, and smarter supply chains are rewriting the growth playbook,” he said. “I’m grateful for this opportunity to lead BCG Asia-Pacific and continue to help our clients create stronger, more resilient businesses.”
BCG has maintained a longstanding presence in the region, having opened its first office in Tokyo in 1966. It now operates 27 offices across Asia-Pacific.
The firm’s advisory work spans multiple sectors, with a growing emphasis on cross-border trade, regulatory adaptation, and risk management in complex markets.
This leadership update also aligns with broader market observations. Recent insights from Aon’s Client Trends 2025 report suggest that businesses worldwide are facing interconnected challenges driven by shifts in trade, technology, climate, and workforce dynamics.
For insurers and financial leaders, this has underscored the need for integrated strategies that align risk, capital, and talent management.
