2020 July G3 - How A Megacompany Navigates Market Change - Innovation @ Hitachi
2020-07-14 12:30 - 14:00 (Asia/Tokyo) | Roppongi Hills Club- Roppongi Hills Club- Italian Restaurant- La Cucina, 51 fl. Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151
Japan is the world’s third largest economy for a reason. The local market is made up of strong SMEs (small to medium enterprise) that are underpinned by big name and great quality large conglomerate companies. Mitsubishi, Mitsui, Toyota, and many other names quickly come to mind. However, a huge contributor to Japan’s economy is the Hitachi Group. Hitachi is famous for making everything from refrigerators to heavy equipment for construction.

In the July CEO Insights, we welcome Hitachi’s newly appointed CFO, Mr. Yoshihiko Kawamura. Mr. Kawamura has played many roles at the group and will be sharing how Hitachi management is navigating economic change, working it’s international businesses, and innovating in technology to remain a leading Japan brand name.

July 29th - Leading Like Champions (LLC) Call via Zoom
2020-07-29 11:00 - 12:00 | Zoom
Our weekly joint meeting has changed to a monthly check in. We will cover the virus threats as well as other leadership areas.
Looking forward to seeing you online!
Please check your email for the link to join the zoom video call. It is also on the meeting request itself.
This is a members only event. All cameras should be on.

Boots on the Ground Investing- A Conversation With A Seasoned Investor
2020-08-04 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club- Roppongi Hills Club- Italian Restaurant- La Cucina, 51 fl. Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151
In our invaluable c-level group meetings, we talk a lot about human resources, building our brands, and many other topics. One area we need to cover more is regarding how to make money with our money. Maybe corporate, but more so personal investing. In the August CEO Insights meeting, we will talk about “Boot’s On The Ground Investing”.
Ray Klein has lived in Tokyo continuously for the past 30 years. He’s made a career of unusual investments and has direct experience in investment in private companies, private debt, asset based debt, US and Japanese real estate, bankruptcy investing, solar development, hotel management, etc.

Not every investment is suited for everyone. Every individual has his profile forrisk vs reward. The question is knowing all the risks. Many investors don’t properly account for the risks associated with high debt and low liquidity.

The money is made in the buy! The next two years should be interesting and filled with opportunity and trapdoors. Join us for the August CI lunch. We’ll talk about money, YOUR MONEY.

Bring questions and be ready for an interactive discussion.

A Transformational Case Study - AbbVie Pharmaceutical
2020-08-06 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club- Roppongi Hills Club- Italian Restaurant- La Cucina, 51 fl. Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151
Sickness and health issues have been in front of us for months now. Working styles have changed over the course of the year as people have gone to WFH, staff rotations, and cutting of central business district office footprints. We’ve heard a lot from various industries through CEO Insights, but in the August meeting, we would like to introduce the pharma perspective to the group.
AbbVie is a leading global pharmaceutical company. Spun off from Abbott in 2013, AbbVie`s flagship product, Humira, is the largest selling pharmaceutical product ever. AbbVie Japan has nearly 1500 employees and is the largest affiliate outside of the US, with annual sales of over $1B.
James Feliciano has been the President of AbbVie Japan since 2016 and has led the organization through a 5-Year transformational project called “The 5-Year Focus”. Focusing on “Driving Growth” and “Employee Engagement”, the organization has risen from #27 in 2016 for the Great Place to Work Employee Engagement Survey to #11 in 2020. During that same time, the company has moved to a “Work Anytime, Anywhere” culture supported with a new, activity-based flexible office. Employee retention remains above 95%, while the company`s Japan industry revenue ranking has jumped from #35 in 2016 to #20 in 2019.
James will share his experience of leading the 5-Year Focus in Japan, insights that he has learned along the way around driving employee engagement and considerations for the post-Covid world.
We look forward to seeing you at the August CI luncheon. Be sure to RSVP below. Space is limited.

The Outlook Of Travel, Tourism, & Entertainment In a Virus-Fearing World
2020-09-08 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club- Roppongi Hills Club- Italian Restaurant- La Cucina, 51 fl. Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151
With rapid expansion of the economy and hotels being built and expanded around the world, no one would have guessed back in January 2020 what devastation the Wuhan Corona COVID-19 virus fears would have on the travel, entertainment, and the hospitality industries. What was growing and expanding rapidly was suddenly stopped in its tracks by daily infection counts, cancellation of major events, and nearly every company cutting all business travel.

The hotel business was hit particularly hard. No travel equates to no guests both internationally as well as domestically. Hotel operators and brands, both large and small, have had to take drastic measures to adjust to the sudden market changes.

In the September CI luncheon, we are happy to hear the inside story from IHG ANA Hotels Group Japan and CI network member Mr. Hans Heijligers. Hans will share his thoughts on travel, tourism, and entertainment businesses. What they have done, and where they are going.

We look forward to seeing you there! Please RSVP below.

Sept C28 – Why The CEO Must Understand Cybersecurity
2020-09-10 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club- Roppongi Hills Club- Italian Restaurant- La Cucina, 51 fl. Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151
Japan is a great place be both professionally and personally. The 22 million tourists who’ve visited Japan in 2018 illustrate that global interest. There is another side to having a high profile among nations and particularly in light of Japan’s challenged strategic environment in North Asia. Japan is increasingly viewed as an inviting cybercrime target. Cyber security is important as a matter of national security, but it is essential as well with respect to enterprises. Companies must better protect themselves from losses in IP (intellectual property), financial theft, and trade secrets. If the CEO doesn’t grasp the basics, how can the corporate team?
CEO Insights luncheon welcomes Mr. Lorne Fetzek, Area Vice President of Imperva Japan. Imperva is California-based next generation cyber security solutions provider that is expanding rapidly in Japan. Lorne will share his impressions and thoughts about:

Macrotrends in cyber security
Classic failures and why organizations get burned
Future threats and what bosses need to protect their businesses

There will be a short presentation to open the session followed by a discussion and Q&A.

Oct C28- Doing Digital- How To Get An Effective Digital Marketing Strategy
2020-10-08 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club- Roppongi Hills Club- Italian Restaurant- La Cucina, 51 fl. Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151
So, Japan is going digital. That prompts us all to think of how we can do “digital” better. When you say digital or digital marketing, some think of buying keywords on a search engine or marketing site, others think of social media campaigns, yet others think of replacing the street signs and other physical promotions. What exactly is digital marketing for your business?

In the October CEO Insights luncheon, will welcome public relations veteran Ross Rowbury. He is a member of our CEO Insights (Tuesday) group and well-rooted in Japan with extensive experience in Asia working with many famous brands, organizations, and even governments. Ross Rowbury will talk about some of the key questions around digital approaches to communications and marketing from his observations during his time at Edelman and seek to provide a couple of pointers and answers to how we can do it better.

We look forward to seeing our CEO Member network there!

2020 Sayonara Summer Reception (SSR)
2020-10-08 18:30 - 20:30 | Arbor Restauran, Aoyama Building 2F 1-2-3 Kita Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-0061, Japan
Life is not just about knowing people, it’s about knowing good people. There’s no beating the quality of the CEO Insights member network and our guests around a table (or many tables in this instance). As an executive, it can be lonely at the top and CI fills that void. As we close out and say “sayonara” to summer 2020, we want to give an extra opportunity for our CI groups to get to know each other. The evening of 8 October, we will break away from our regular luncheons and other meetings and have arranged a special event.
This evening of strictly food, drink, and networking gives members a chance to catch up with fellow CEOs after a relaxing summer break enjoying a beautiful Fall evening. We’ll even have some guest c-levels and other friends as well. We’re excited to try this new venue in Tokyo as the general manager at Global Treehouse has arranged a special menu for the CEO Insights SS Reception.
Please sign up early as space is limited to the first 25 CEOs to sign up.
CEO Insights – Sayonara Summer Reception

When: Thursday, 8 October, 1830pm – 2030pm
Where: Arbor Restaurant Within The Global Treehouse
Cost: 11,400 yen / person (Including Tax)
RSVP: CI Support Team via fields below
* Due to booking with the catering, no cancellations or refunds after 5pm on 2 Oct (Friday).
**Priority is given to CI Network members. Even if you’re not a member of CEO Insights, please RSVP below. We’ll confirm your place via that form shortly thereafter.

2020 October G3- How Artificial Intelligence Changing Life and Business
2020-10-13 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club- Roppongi Hills Club- Italian Restaurant- La Cucina, 51 fl. Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151
AI seems to be the battle cry of executives looking to cut staffing costs or increase revenues. You hear discussions in trade shows, boardrooms and offices around the world. The concept of Artificial Intelligence is a bit hazy for some. Both those professing to know it, as well as those who think they are using AI. In the Oct CI luncheon, we look to dispel some of the fog. Stefan Sacre, CEO of Carl Zeiss Japan, investor, and technologist will be giving an introduction starting with explaining some terms such as AI, machine learning, deep learning. Mr. Sacre will also take us into the recent progress, applications (some them mind-blowing!). He will also reveal, who are the real “players” in the industry and what you can expect and what not to expect.
Join us for a fantastic lunch that feeds the mind and body with nothing artificial!

The Future Of Luxury Goods. Accelerated - A Talk with Chopard Japan's Boss
2020-11-10 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
The virus fears of 2020 may be recorded in history as the most massive disruption to the retail business ever. In particular, luxury goods have felt the pain of the challenge for clients to get into the beautiful stores despite their prime locations. It may have been tough, but high-end luxury is timeless and most brands are here for years to come. High quality goods will continue to be in high demand. One key trend that significantly accelerated during the crisis is “Sustainable Luxury”.

Chopard announced the “Journey to Sustainable Luxury” already in 2013, when most people in the industry did not even know what sustainability is. Since 2019, Chopard is the first brand to produce all its jewellery and watch creations with 100% ethical gold, leading the industry into a new era of CSR.

Mr. Thomas Dobeli, President of Chopard Japan will be sharing his insights on the future of luxury. Chopard is one of very few remaining independent and family owned global luxury brands. Recently, Thomas was invited to give guest lectures at Kyoto University’s MBA class as well as Hitotsubashi University ICS’s MBA class on this topic. Thomas is a long time resident of Japan and is a native Swiss that brings his brand to life in Japan.

Come join CI for another fascinating topic and lunch meeting.

More on our guest CEO Thomas Dobeli here.

***This is a members-only event. If you are a c-level and would like to visit, please contact the CI admin team to check for available outside guest seats at the table for this event.

Understanding Company Life Cycles While Building Your Business
2020-11-12 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
All companies go through various corporate life stages, maybe even including the fight for survival and the fight for revitalization when growth success has settled.
This spans from when resources are limited and the manager has to play the game as her/his current players can handle it, as opposed to replacing the team and playing as she/he would prefer to do, over the growth phase to where the original players can no longer keep up and must be supported or even replaced.
In the November CEO Insights Lunch, we are pleased to welcome our own Per Rasmussen, Managing Director of Millet Mountain Group Japan, a French famous brands for people who love the great outdoors. https://www.millet.jp/
Per will share his insights on corporate life stages in smaller organizations, insights built up over many years in Japan as Marketing Manager and Managing Director for; LEGO, Braun, T-fal and Millet. 4 very different European consumer goods companies with small to medium size subsidiaries in Japan.
We look forward to seeing you there! Please RSVP below to secure your seat at the board table.

2020 December G3 Year End Wrap Up- Better Boss, Better Business
2020-12-01 12:30 - 14:00 | The Tavern Lounge, 51F, Andaz Tokyo
As yet another year closes, many executive offices are reviewing what worked and what didn’t, what sold and what didn’t, what blew up and what overflowed. In addition to national responsibility, many of our member CEOs have other countries in Asia as well as Australia/New Zealand reporting to them. Growth is about reflecting on management mistakes as well as building management successes.
The December CEO Insights meetings is one of the most popular and well attended meetings as executives get ready for the Christmas holidays and year’s end. This will be likely be your last chance to rub elbows with Asia’s top Tokyo-based CEOs and leadership.

2020 December C28 Year End Wrap Up- Better Boss, Better Business
2020-12-03 12:30 - 14:00 | The Tavern Lounge, 51F, Andaz Tokyo
As yet another year closes, many executive offices are reviewing what worked and what didn’t, what sold and what didn’t, what blew up and what overflowed. In addition to national responsibility, many of our member CEOs have other countries in Asia as well as Australia/New Zealand reporting to them. Growth is about reflecting on management mistakes as well as building management successes.
The December CEO Insights meetings is one of the most popular and well attended meetings as executives get ready for the Christmas holidays and year’s end. This will be likely be your last chance to rub elbows with Asia’s top Tokyo-based CEOs and leadership.
Don’t miss it!
*Space is extremely limited (to 10 bosses) due to the room. Please be sure to register below.
**VENUE – Please note that the meeting will be held in Nihonbashi (not Roppongi) this month. If you are a member of the Tokyo American Club, you can pay directly at the venue. For guests, please bring 3,500 JPY cash. If you would like to pay via bank transfer please let us know in advance.

Executive Committee Breakfast- Planning 2020
2020-12-08 08:00 - 09:00 | The Tavern Lounge, 51F, Andaz Tokyo
Dear CEO Insights Members,
To say 2020 has been different would be an understatement. Despite the upheaval, by year’s end we will have managed to have had more events than 2019. For example,
• 20 Monthly Lunches For CI Network
• 15 weekly/monthly “Leading Like Champions” Vid Conferences
• Sayonara Summer Reception
• Numerous independent meetings stirred amongst our group and members
For 2021, we need your help with leadership. We’ve got to set the themes and topics of what the group should cover.
You are invited to the CI planning breakfast on 8 December @8AM. Enjoy breakfast and great leaders, as we will be discuss the following-
1) Topics and speakers for 2021
2) 2021 event schedule
3) Review the directions, goals, and membership for the group
Please join us for this important session and be a part of making CEO Insights most inspiring network of bosses for years to come. RSVP here.
*The event is limited to 8 CEOs so please sign up soon to confirm your participation. The venue will be emailed to your shortly after confirmation. The cost is just whatever you order for breakfast at the venue.
(Posted 9 Nov)

2021 January G3 Hot Topic- Successful Keys To Hiring And Developing Key Players & Programs
2021-01-12 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
The topic that frequently comes up around our CI Network board room tables is people. Besides money, people are probably the most challenging part of our businesses. People are who service our clients, people are the root of many management issues (our time), and in many cases people are the difference between failure or phenomenal business success. In this CI luncheon we will talk about this priceless resource.
Join us for a ‘hot topic’ meeting with no guest speakers, just in ‘all cards on the table’ interactions with peers in different industries. Our discussion is planned to cover

Filtering and onboarding new team mates for the long term
Performance and programs that can makes stronger players
The pitfalls and the success stories for developing and enhancing the team

Join us for this ‘hot topic’ issue discussion. Experience from fellow c-levels speaks louder than any consultant or program.

2021 January (Thurs) The Past, Present, and Future of NASA And Its Partnerships with Commercial and International Partners
2021-01-14 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
With the ending of the Apollo program and the retirement of the Space Shuttle in 2011, many may have been concerned about next steps for NASA and the exploration of outer space. However, we have watched how private companies have thrived and been able to discover new and innovative opportunities in space, while NASA has remained at the forefront of enabling this flourishing industry. During the January CEO Insights luncheon, we will welcome special guest Mr. Garvey McIntosh, NASA Attaché for Asia based at the U.S. Embassy Tokyo.
Garvey will be sharing his thoughts on what NASA has learned from the past, how it is conducting it current missions, and its plans for the future. He will address the importance of international cooperation with Japan and other nations around the world. In addition, with last year’s 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon landing, he will discuss what the future holds for the exploration of the solar system and beyond.
Come join us for a great chance to see the intersect between science and business. Quoting the famous astronaut in the animation Toy Story, “To infinity and beyond!
CI Members- RSVP Below to secure your seat at the event
More about Garvey
Garvey McIntosh is currently the NASA Asia Representative based at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo. In this capacity he is responsible for the coordination of NASA programs and interests in Japan and other countries in the Asia Pacific Region. He also works with regional aerospace officials on key programs and serves as point of contact for NASA related meetings and travel. Since joining NASA in the Office of International and Interagency Relations (OIIR) in 2003, Garvey has accumulated a broad range of experience. While in OIIR, he has negotiated and completed agreements with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and NASA’s other international partners on the Space Shuttle, International Space Station, high-energy physics and astronomy.

2021 February - The Future of NASA And Space Exploration Under the Biden Administration
2021-02-09 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club- Roppongi Hills Club- Italian Restaurant- La Cucina, 51 fl. Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151
With the ending of the Apollo program and the retirement of the Space Shuttle in 2011, many may have been concerned about next steps for NASA and the exploration of outer space. However, we have watched how private companies have thrived and been able to discover new and innovative opportunities in space, while NASA has remained at the forefront of enabling this flourishing industry. Now with the Biden administration in the cockpit, what is the future for space? During the February CEO Insights luncheon, we will welcome special guest Mr. Garvey McIntosh, NASA Attaché for Asia based at the U.S. Embassy Tokyo.
Garvey will be sharing his thoughts on what NASA has learned from the past, how it is conducting it current missions, and its plans for the future. He will address the importance of international cooperation with Japan and other nations around the world. In addition, with last year’s 50th anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon landing, he will discuss what the future holds for the exploration of the solar system and beyond.
Come join us for a great chance to see the intersect between science and business. Quoting the famous astronaut in the animation Toy Story, “To infinity and beyond!
CI Members- RSVP Below to secure your seat at the event
More about Garvey
Garvey McIntosh is currently the NASA Asia Representative based at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo. In this capacity he is responsible for the coordination of NASA programs and interests in Japan and other countries in the Asia Pacific Region. He also works with regional aerospace officials on key programs and serves as point of contact for NASA related meetings and travel. Since joining NASA in the Office of International and Interagency Relations (OIIR) in 2003, Garvey has accumulated a broad range of experience. While in OIIR, he has negotiated and completed agreements with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and NASA’s other international partners on the Space Shuttle, International Space Station, high-energy physics and astronomy.

2021 February- From The Eyes Of A Native- Japan Legal Precedents That Influence Your Business
2021-02-18 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club- Roppongi Hills Club- Italian Restaurant- La Cucina, 51 fl. Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151
The influence of government and politicians around the world demonstrate the importance understanding the legal systems of our land. Legally speaking, Japan is a lot more stable than other nations of late, however that doesn’t make the nation perfect. The nation has some quirks of its own. A wise business leader will understand the legal implications of any business before they embark on a new project. CEO Insights is made up of leading Japan executives as well as c-levels from around the world. In the February CEO Insights luncheon, we welcome Mr. Takuo Misaki. He will be sharing his experience on

The Japanese Legal System: How attorneys are educated, tested and trained and the evolving legal market
Examples of “rogue” members of the Legal Community
Employment and how COVID can change employer/employee relations

There are many areas we would like to cover so Mr. Misaki is willing to go with the flow. However, with some 2,000 to 1,500 new lawyers coming online each year since the legal education reform almost a decade ago, the market is changing and employers have to stay ahead of the curve.
More on Takuo Misaki
Mr. Misaki was admited to the Tokyo Bar Association in 2011. He is a graduate of Sophia University and the law school at Keio University. He speaks native Japanese and English. His areas of practice: Family matters, civil law, criminal cases, labour/employment issues, litigation, corporate law, commercial law, international transactions, legal matters regarding schools (including international schools). He practiced law in a larger firm and has recently founded his own firm, Law Offices of Fujita and Misaki. He also teaches at Temple University in Japan.

The Champion- Keeping It All Together, When Other CEOs Fail
2021-03-09 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club- Roppongi Hills Club- Italian Restaurant- La Cucina, 51 fl. Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151
When the earthquake, tsunamis, and nuclear meltdowns of 2011 hit Japan the leadership skills of the CEO were evident. With the virus fears of 2020, everyone had many chances to make decisions. Some we may be happy with, others we likely want to change.
Great leadership leads while sometimes in weakness, some leadership buckled and bailed. Life is waves of ups and downs, but it is possible to have more high points than disasters. Being prepared for natural disasters, regulatory changes, human resource challenges, cyber attacks, corporate espionage and nearly anything that can come at us is mostly about being ready. Readiness comes because we’ve given thought to an area of our business. As the CEO, we are expected to lead our companies into success.
In the March CEO Insights meeting, bosses will have the chance to hear about issues that other businesses have had and how the CEO was able to keep it together. We’ll be covering HR, technology, logistic, legal, and other challenges in this interactive exchange.

2021 March C28 - How Artificial Intelligence Changing Life and Business
2021-03-18 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
AI seems to be the battle cry of executives looking to cut staffing costs or increase revenues. You hear discussions in trade shows, boardrooms and offices around the world. The concept of Artificial Intelligence is a bit hazy for some. Both those professing to know it, as well as those who think they are using AI. In the March CI luncheon, we look to dispel some of the fog. Stefan Sacre, CEO of Carl Zeiss Japan, investor, and technologist will be giving an introduction starting with explaining some terms such as AI, machine learning, deep learning. Mr. Sacre will also take us into the recent progress, applications (some them mind-blowing!). He will also reveal, who are the real “players” in the industry and what you can expect and what not to expect.
Join us for a fantastic lunch that feeds the mind and body with nothing artificial!

2021 April G3 The Wavering Role of Legal Professionals - From the Eyes of a Japanese Legal Practitioner
2021-04-13 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club- Roppongi Hills Club- Italian Restaurant- La Cucina, 51 fl. Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151
The services of a lawyer are retained for the purpose of defending and representing the best interests of the client.
However, recent developments in the legal industry suggest that just looking out such interests is insufficient in carrying out the duties of a lawyer.

What is a lawyer you retain looking out for other than your interests?
Other than the best interests of the client, what binds the decisions and undertakings of a lawyer?
In what situations will a lawyer be compelled to prioritize the ethical duties imposed upon such lawyer above the interest of the client?
Mr. Misaki will discuss these questions and also provide an overview of the legal industry in this event.
There are many areas we would like to cover so Mr. Misaki is willing to go with the flow.
However, with some 1,500 new lawyers coming online each year since the legal education reform almost a decade ago, the market is changing and employers have to stay ahead.

An Inside View of Japan's New Digital Agency
2021-04-15 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
The novel coronavirus pandemic has exposed long-acknowledged shortfalls in some critical government administrative services and highlighted how much Japan must do to address its lag in digitization. To that end, the government in February approved bills to promote digitization and establish a Digital Agency in September. Coordinating, integrating and standardizing a unique digital framework to boost the quality of public services is a key policy of the Suga administration. In line with this, the government also wants to enhance Japan’s attractiveness as a digital infrastructure hub.
Together, we will explore current discussions in the Diet, the challenges ahead, and which industries are likely to be affected by the government’s digitization push. We will also examine how much Japan’s digital transformation has progressed, and whether the government can finally succeed in digitizing its complex administration as an example for the rest of society. Please join us for this timely discussion on digital policy in the post-corona era.
This CEO Insights lunch on April 15th will be moderated by seasoned government relations expert Timothy Langley. Mr. Langley is founder and CEO of Langley Esquire, Tokyo’s premier public affairs consulting firm dedicated to resolving issues in Japan’s unique regulatory environment.

May (Tues Grp)- An Inside View of Japan's New Digital Agency
2021-05-11 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club- Roppongi Hills Club- Italian Restaurant- La Cucina, 51 fl. Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151

May (Thurs) -Understanding The Background Effects Of Wuhan, Lockdowns, And Employee Mental Health
2021-05-20 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
Recently, the national government declared another ‘state of emergency’ in an effort to keep the coronavirus from spreading. All the lockdowns, work from home (WFH) and daily fear in the mass media seem to have greatly stressed the population. Being stuck at home with limited social interaction, mass layoffs by struggling businesses, and other concerns for the future have taken a toll on both the experienced and new workers.
In the May meeting, CEO Insights members will welcome the chairman of Tokyo English Life Line, or TELL. This NPO supports and counsels people who are struggling in such a challenging environment. Join us to discuss:

The current state of the local employee in Japan
What the government and NPOs are doing to respond to the high suicide rates of Japan
What companies can do to create a positive working environment for their teams

Join us for an insightful meeting that will help you better understand the needs of your team as well as the society that currently surrounds them.

2021 June (Tues) -The State of e-Commerce In Japan - Featuring Netwise CEO
2021-06-08 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
Whatever negative impact COVID has had on industries such as retail and hospitality, e-commerce is as strong as ever and–in most cases–continues to grow and evolve, often at a dizzying pace. In this month’s CI lunch, Mr. Michael Rollins, Founder and President of Tokyo-based e-commerce agency Netwise, will present a macro-level survey of the current state of e-commerce in Japan, focusing on the most important trends, developments, and innovations in this fast-moving and highly lucrative space.
For anyone with an interest in selling–or selling more–online, this event is sure to arm you with actionable information and ideas. For more about Mr. Rollins company check out this. His bio is on the jobsite LinkedIn here.

2021 June (Thurs) - Death Or Taxes, Better Talk Taxes
2021-06-17 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club- Roppongi Hills Club- Italian Restaurant- La Cucina, 51 fl. Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151
One of the beautiful things about living in the world is the great opportunity every person has to pay taxes. Even Jesus Christ, when publicly attacked by the religious bigots in a trick masterfully responded,
“give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.” His reply completely amazed them [Matthew 12:17]. He’s God but we’re not and taxation has been an important area to understand for a LONG time. So give to the government what they demand and life will be easier. The fact of the matter is we all have to pay. In the June CEO Insights network meeting we will again welcome a specialist in the field, Mr. Hans-Peter Musahi.

Although it will be an open discussion, which is part of what makes CI membership so valuable, we are planning to cover
⁃ Deductions of certain directors bonuses
⁃ The limited inheritance tax exemptions
⁃ Carried interest in Japan
⁃ The end of rental loss deductions
⁃ Valuation opportunities

We expect this to be a dynamic discussion as we’ve not covered the topic since April 2017. Don’t miss this opportunity to talk taxes… and we’ll save the death discussion for a later date. 😉

CANCELLED- Summer Reception CI 2021
2021-07-08 18:30 - 20:30 | Arbor Restaurant Within The Global Treehouse, 2F & 3F, 1-2-3 Kita Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 107-0061, Japan
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED
Life is not just about knowing people, it’s about knowing good people. There’s no beating the quality of the CEO Insights member network and our guests around a table (or many tables in this instance). As an executive, it can be lonely at the top and CI fills that void. The evening of 8 of July, we will break away from our regular luncheons and other meetings and have arranged a special event.
This evening of strictly food, drink, and networking gives members a chance to catch up with fellow CEOs after a long winter enjoying a beautiful Summer evening. We’ll even have some guest c-levels and other friends as well. We’re excited to try this venue in Tokyo as the general manager at Global Treehouse has arranged a special menu for the CEO Insights Summer Reception.
Please sign up early as space is limited to the first 25 CEOs to sign up.
CEO Insights – Summer Reception

When: Thursday, 8 July, 18:30pm – 20:30pm
Where: Arbor Restaurant Within The Global Treehouse
Cost: 10,000 yen / person (Including Tax)
RSVP: CI Support Team via fields below
* Due to booking with the catering, no cancellations or refunds after 5pm on 2 Jul (Friday).
**Priority is given to CI Network members. Even if you’re not a member of CEO Insights, please RSVP below. We’ll confirm your place via that form shortly thereafter.

2021 July (Tues) The Future Of Work, Management, And Motivation- A Discussion With Audio Giant JABRA
2021-07-13 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
Over the last year, both inside and outside of the CI network business leaders have discussed the future of work. The larger companies have predicted a complete move to WFH (work from home), while medium-sized businesses have questioned the productivity of the team. For employees, eliminating the commute cuts an hour or two of transport out of their day. However, the loss of in-person collaboration seems to have an effect on productivity. What’s the real story on the ground?
In July’s CI network luncheon we will welcome Danish audio manufacturer Jabra’s boss Mr. Yasushi Ando. Mr. Ando will share how Jabra sees the market as work from home generated incredible demand for Jabra products for both personal and corporates. He will also give us insights on how companies are changing, as well as how they actually keep doing the same thing.
Network Members– Please RSVP below if you would like to participate. Guests– Please contact us via our contact form if you would like us to check about getting a spot at the table.
More about Mr. Ando here on L-in

15 July (Thurs)- How To Be An Effective CEO
2021-07-15 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
The higher one goes in an organization, the heavier the weight of management, and success, can be. Budgets, hiring, strategic planning, new product roll outs, CSR… the list can go on… and on. How can a boss get things done, work to be responsive, and find new business without blowing up personally? There are many tools, techniques, and insights that you can get for GTD (getting things done) and even having some time to enjoy your personal life.

This month’s CI luncheon is a hot topic. No guest speakers, just an ‘all cards on the table’ interaction (or as much people want to share) on how you can be a better leader, and more effective CEO. Please join us for insights from your peers in this meeting led by the CI chairman to cover-

How to turn ‘overwhelming’ into organized

Identifying and utilising delegation in your teams to keep the business growing

Software, services, tools, and techniques for meeting corporate and personal objectives

Projecting positivity, proactive, and admirable leadership to clients, leadership, and

This opportunity will not only allow you to discover best practices, but to find out what works for your peers in leadership in other industries.

2021 Aug (Tues) - Building A New Business With OLD Buildings
2021-08-10 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
As a network of able CEOs, both younger and older, we always enjoy hearing about other people’s businesses. We’ve enjoyed discussions with major software global CEOs, global retailers, local robot manufacturers, and countless other dives into various businesses.
For some reason, the English media has a news cycle that restarts every year or so about the millions of vacant or abandoned properties around the nation. Some say for as little as ¥50,000 JPY ($500 USD). Many times associated with population decline or the move from the smaller towns and cities to the major metro areas such as Osaka, Tokyo, or Fukuoka, vacant properties seem to be a major problem for municipalities around the country. But our friends at Akiya & Inaka see it differently.
In the August CI Network luncheon we will welcome Matthew Ketchum, Co-Founder, Akiya & Inaka. Matthew will share how he and his business partner created an alternative real estate business model that turns a perceived problem into practical opportunity.
The accepted akiya narrative posits that Japan’s vacant buildings are categorically condemnable for all but the most committed DIY hobbyists and irredeemably rural, but Akiya & Inaka have proven that this is not the case. $500 or $500,000 or more, there are akiya of all types at all levels of viability, and they’re being used for more than just vacation homes or bed & breakfasts. Join us for this fascinating discussion that gives us the real deal on what the story on the ground is. Who knows? You may even come out of it with a new property.
More about Matthew Ketchum here on Linkedin, with his company website here.
