In a ceremony recognizing "Chicago's 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For," Astellas Pharma US, Inc. won an Elite award for employee engagement and commitment by the National Association for Business Resources (NABR). Astellas scored high in all 10 categories and was specifically recognized for the high level of employees' engagement and pride in the company.

"At Astellas, we understand that investment in our employees is vital to reaching our corporate goals and it is even more critical in these tough economic times," said Seigo Kashii, president and CEO of Astellas. "Being selected as 'Chicago's 101 Best and Brightest Companies to Work For' further validates our commitment to our employees and being a recognized employer of choice in the Chicago area and the pharmaceutical industry."

"We are honored to recognize the efforts of this year's 101 'Best and Brightest' companies. These companies have created impressive organizational value and business results through their policies and best practices in human resource management. This award has become a powerful recruitment tool in the drive to attract and retain exceptional employees," said Jennifer Kluge, NABR president.

The NABR's annual list of "Best and Brightest Companies" compiles the results of an independent research firm that evaluates each company's entry in the following categories: communication, community initiatives, compensation and benefits, diversity and multiculturalism, employee education and development, employee engagement and commitment, recognition and retention, small business, recruitment and selection, and work-life balance. The judges look for unique and creative thought processes with support from senior management and policy makers.

About Astellas

Astellas Pharma US, Inc., located in Deerfield, Illinois, is a U.S. affiliate of Tokyo-based Astellas Pharma Inc. Astellas is a pharmaceutical company dedicated to improving the health of people around the world through the provision of innovative and reliable pharmaceutical products. The organization is committed to becoming a global category leader in focused areas by combining outstanding R&D and marketing capabilities. In the US, Astellas markets products in the areas of Immunology, Urology, Anti-Infectives, Cardiovascular and Dermatology. For more information about Astellas Pharma US, Inc., please visit our website at www.us.astellas.com.

About The National Association for Business Resources

The National Association for Business Resources (NABR) advocates and represents small and medium-sized businesses throughout the United States. NABR specializes in providing businesses the benefits, programs, services, and assistance required to operating as efficiently and successfully as possible. Best practice solutions are available to members in the areas of human resources, healthcare, legal, transaction, compliance, marketing, and office services. For more information about NABR and its offerings, please visit www.nationalbiz.org or call 1-866-321-1822.