Kako Kuwahara has been appointed as the new President and Chief Executive Officer of Nippon Television Music Corporation, the music publishing arm of Japan’s leading multi-platform entertainment company, Nippon TV. The appointment, effective July 14, 2025, sees Kuwahara stepping into a pivotal role aimed at strengthening the global presence of music and character intellectual properties (IPs) originating from Nippon TV’s popular shows, particularly its acclaimed anime titles.
Kuwahara takes over from Akihiro Shimizu, who has transitioned to become the new president of Tipness Co. Ltd., a Nippon TV subsidiary that operates fitness clubs across Japan. In her new capacity, Kuwahara will report directly to Keiichi Sawa, Senior Operating Officer at Nippon TV Holdings.
A Distinguished Career in International and Anime Business
Kako Kuwahara brings extensive experience to her new leadership role, having a long and impactful career within Nippon TV. She previously served as the Head of International Business and Head of Anime Business at Nippon TV. Her prior roles also include Managing Director of International Business Development, a position she was promoted to in 2017.
During her tenure, Kuwahara was instrumental in the global success of numerous anime titles, including “The Apothecary Diaries” and “Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End.” Her efforts significantly expanded Nippon TV’s anime business on the international stage. She also played a key role in launching Nippon TV’s first Anime Department in 2020, becoming its first Executive Vice President of Business Development, where she oversaw international anime distribution.
Nippon TV Music’s Role and Future Vision
Established in 1969, Nippon Television Music Corporation is headquartered in Tokyo and plays a crucial role in managing a wide array of musical works. This includes background scores, opening and ending themes for popular Nippon TV programs, and handling master recording production and copyright management. The company is also deeply involved in the international merchandising and game adaptation businesses for major IPs like “Hunter x Hunter,” “Death Note,” “Anpanman,” and “Lupin the Third.”
In a statement regarding her appointment, Kuwahara expressed her ambitions for the company. She noted that while Nippon TV is already a global force in Japanese entertainment, Nippon TV Music aims to further elevate its presence through music produced for Nippon TV’s hit shows. She emphasized a collaborative approach with Japan’s talented music creators to produce music and characters that resonate with audiences worldwide, encompassing anime, films, drama series, and variety shows.
Her appointment signals Nippon TV Music’s intensified focus on global expansion, leveraging Kuwahara’s proven track record in international business development and her deep understanding of the anime industry.
