United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has appointed Aya Suzuki as the new Senior Vice-Rector of the United Nations University.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has announced the appointment of Aya Suzuki from Japan as the new Senior Vice-Rector of the United Nations University (UNU). The announcement was made on June 23, 2025, following consultations with UNU, and is effective from October 1, 2025.

Aya Suzuki succeeds Sawako Shirahase, also from Japan.

Suzuki, a noted Japanese development economist, is recognized for her work in poverty reduction, focusing on both agricultural and industrial development in developing countries. She currently serves as a professor in the Department of International Studies at the University of Tokyo and holds leadership roles as a Special Adviser to the University President and Deputy Director General of University Corporate Relations at the University of Tokyo. Through these positions, she has spearheaded initiatives to foster social entrepreneurship and international collaboration, alongside enhancing support for students from the Global South. 

UNU Rector Tshilidzi Marwala welcomed the appointment:

“Dr. Suzuki’s extensive experience in development economics and her significant leadership roles within the University of Tokyo make her an exceptional addition to UNU’s leadership team. Her research experience aligns perfectly with UNU’s focus on addressing pressing global challenges and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals."

Prof. Suzuki reacted to her appointment, saying:

“I am deeply honoured and excited to join UNU and contribute to its vital mission”, said Dr. Suzuki. “I believe that my background and experience will enable me to further strengthen UNU’s impact in Japan and globally, supporting research and policy dialogue that addresses critical sustainable development issues.”

Suzuki's professional background includes serving as an auditor for the Japanese Association for Development Economics and a visiting professor at the University of Waikato in New Zealand. Aya Suzuki holds a PhD in Development and Agricultural Economics from the University of California, Davis, and has a distinguished academic career marked by numerous publications on agricultural marketing and development economics. 

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