Yotaro Kobayashi

Originally a distributor of Xerox products in Asia, Fuji Xerox began to develop its own products by 1973. Kobayashi joined Fuji Photo just after graduating Wharton, and by 1978 he had become executive vice president, president, and then CEO of Fuji Xerox, rising to chairman of the board in March 1999. Under Kobayashi, the company has become responsible for the innovation and manufacture of many Xerox products. Its innovations include the world’s first multifunction printer/copier in 1987.