CAMBRIDGE, Mass.– Saisei Ventures, an investment firm focused on advancing Japanese biotechnology and therapeutic innovations, today announced the appointment of James Feliciano as venture partner.
Feliciano brings more than 20 years of experience as a pharmaceutical executive in Japan, where he has played a central role in advancing innovative therapies and guiding global teams. He most recently founded 3C Advisors GK, a Tokyo-based strategic advisory firm that partners with organizations navigating the complexities of the Japanese market. Prior to that, he served as president and general manager of Japan operations at AbbVie, where he directed strategic initiatives across multiple therapeutic areas. He also held the same role at Merck KGaA, leading large-scale organizational strategy and execution. Earlier in his career at Pfizer, he launched the company’s first vaccine division in Japan and helped secure landmark reimbursement policies for pediatric vaccines.
At Saisei, Feliciano will collaborate with portfolio company management teams to shape development strategies and strengthen the commercial potential of their drug candidates for global pharmaceutical partnerships. His expertise in late-stage commercialization and market access will provide guidance on the clinical, regulatory, and payer considerations that influence successful adoption.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Mr. Feliciano to Saisei,” said Jonathan Yeh, managing partner at Saisei Ventures. “His expertise and insight into Japan’s pharmaceutical and biotech landscape, and his proven ability to lead, mentor and execute strategy on a global scale, will be invaluable as we advance the next generation of biotechnology companies.”
Feliciano holds a B.A. in psychology from Hampden-Sydney College, an M.A. in Japanese studies from the University of Michigan, and an MBA from Cornell University’s Johnson Graduate School of Management. He is actively involved in PhRMA Japan, where he previously served as chairman, and has been recognized for his efforts to promote an innovation ecosystem. Beyond his professional roles, he is a certified executive coach with the International Coaching Federation and a member of the Marshall Goldsmith 100 Coaches, mentoring both emerging Japanese leaders and expatriate executives.
“I am excited to join Saisei Ventures at such a pivotal time in the biotechnology landscape,” said Feliciano. “Japan is uniquely positioned to take on a key role in global innovation, and I look forward to working with the Saisei team to help bring transformative therapies to patients.”
