CEO Insights Executive Group

March Tuesday Group Event
2022-03-08 12:30 - 14:00 (Asia/Tokyo)

Why I Quit My Job to Start An NFT Company
2022-03-17 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
This month, we’ll finish the third and final installment on digital commerce. In the Thursday CEO Insights group, we’ve discussed the metaverse, Bitcoin, and we’ll close the cyber series with the hot topic of NFTs. Is it something that affects our businesses? The answer to the question may vary but we’re excited to welcome Mr. Marty Roberts.

Dr. Marty Roberts, PhD, is psychologist, spent 20 years in healthcare, and a serial entrepreneur. Marty quit his job to use NFTs to make graffiti artists cash with his new start up www.totemo.art. Join us for this riveting discussion on

What are NFTs and what does this technology promise
What industries they will mostly impact
Why a c-level would quit his day job to work in the industry

We’re excited to wrap up the digital series with another person who is not selling us something, but actually giving us a glimpse of their business.
Reserve your space below

Bitcoin RELOADED— A Financial Revolution?
2022-04-12 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
Last year US headline inflation hit a 39 year record high 7%. The Fed is signaling rate rises this year in attempt to quell this inflation, meanwhile the US sovereign debt sits at an unprecedented $30 trillion. How much can the Fed really raise rates in this environment? Where is monetary policy headed as governments of the world seek to manage debt and structural deficits while paying for ever increasing social security while fighting a global pandemic? Finally, how does Bitcoin fit in with all this, and how is it different to alternative cryptocurrencies, private sector payment (Alipay, PayPay, etc., ) or even Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs)
In the February CI network meeting, we will welcome a special guest (that will go unnamed). This gentlemen hails from the United Kingdom and is very active in the the topic area personally. In this interactive discussion, we will cover

Is Bitcoin digital gold?
Bitcoin’s killer app: self-sovereignty and security.
Bitcoin’s Achilles Heel: Privacy?

This is what many of you have been asking for so we’re excited to share this information in our group. Please remember to RSVP. Last month we couldn’t get everyone around the table but thankfully we were able to get everyone in the room.

Spring Reception With Tokyo's Leading CEOs
2022-04-14 18:30 - 20:30 | The Grand Hyatt @ Roppongi Hills, 6-10-3 Roppongi 6F, Minato, Tokyo, 106-0032, Japan
Our network of CEOs and other c-levels from diverse industries such as banking, power generation, technology, consumer products, luxury good and countless others are excited to gather for what was supposed to be a Spring reception back in 2021. That never worked out, but now the stops are all out. On Thursday, 14 April 2022, the CEO Insights members will gather to welcome the new year and SPRING to, reconnect with peers in our network, and even meet new guest CEOs.
To kick off 2022, we will gather for food and drinks in Tokyo’s swanky Roppongi district. The meeting will be held at The Oak Door Steakhouse the event will be pay as you go.
Space is limited so please sign up soon to secure your spot.

POSTPONED TO MAY - How Situational Leadership Skills Can Transform Your Organization
2022-04-21 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
THIS EVENT HAS BEEN POSTPONED TO MAY 19th. THERE WILL BE NO EVENT ON 21 APRIL
Every c-level struggles with developing great teams and leaders. Often times, a manager’s preferred leadership style is not always correct and that can result in retention issues or worse, disengaged staff.
In the April CI luncheon we will welcome HR executive, Ken Cogger, who will introduce you to how he uses situational leadership in his organization in Japan and in the global offices. Situational Leadership is a framework in which difference in proficiency is regarded as difference in situation and an approach corresponding to the difference will enhance the manager’s effectiveness.
The framework was developed back in 1969 by Ken Blanchard to build a stronger, more flexible organization at a time when most companies were run with only one style.
Situational leaders can

avoid over-supervision and under-supervision
improve engagement
increase productivity
beat ambiguity and uncertainty

Enjoy this opportunity to learn how to better your staff from a new perspective. RSVP below to secure your spot.

Using Situational Leadership Skills To Transform Your Team
2022-05-19 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
Every c-level struggles with developing great teams and leaders. Often times, a manager’s preferred leadership style is not always correct and that can result in retention issues or worse, disengaged staff.
In the April CI luncheon we will welcome HR executive, Ken Cogger, who will introduce you to how he uses situational leadership in his organization in Japan and in the global offices. Situational Leadership is a framework in which difference in proficiency is regarded as difference in situation and an approach corresponding to the difference will enhance the manager’s effectiveness.
The framework was developed back in 1969 by Ken Blanchard to build a stronger, more flexible organization at a time when most companies were run with only one style.
Situational leaders can

avoid over-supervision and under-supervision
improve engagement
increase productivity
beat ambiguity and uncertainty

Enjoy this opportunity to learn how to better your staff from a new perspective. RSVP below to secure your spot.

ESGs and Sustainability- What You Really Need To Know
2022-06-16 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
For some, ESGs and Sustainability are processes to live by. For other organizations, they are just the latest fad or buzz words which managers like to capitalize on. But sustainability is a serious movement with many angles touching diverse corners of our social and economic life with far reaching structural consequences that will shape our consumption and production behaviors in the long run. One of the key areas we will feel the products of its presence is food production.
In the June CEO Insights meeting, Mr. Erol Emed of Soul of Japan will be discussing their business model and why investors and market players are supporting the sustainable food production model they have built their business on. He will discuss:
– What are the economic, social, and environmental developments behind the drive in food sustainability
-How sustainability and ESGs built Soul of Japan’s business
-The future of ESG and sustainability wave (it is not a wave you can ride to gain economic benefit, but a structural trend which you will ignore at your own peril)
-The dark side of the climate cult
Join for another insightful meeting at CEO Insights! Reservations required.
Bio- Mr. Erol Emed
Bachelor of Science, Middle East Technology University, Ankara, 1985. Master of Arts, International University Japan, Niigata, 1989. Master of Science, Oxford University, England, 2001.
Career
Currently CEO of Soul of Japan K.K.- Asia and Japan’s largest land based salmon farming venture funded by 8F Aquaculture Fund I, and managed by private equity firm 8F Asset Management
Previously run his own consulting firm, worked at Thomson Reuters as Senior Director, as Head of Research at a Hedge Fund, and as Executive Director, Chief Investment Officer, and Head of Alternative Investment at Societe Generale Asset Management Japan (currently known as Amundi Japan)

Where Are The Best Investments?- Investor's CIRCLE Breakfast
2022-07-13 08:00 - 09:30 | The Grand Hyatt @ Roppongi Hills, 6-10-3 Roppongi 6F, Minato, Tokyo, 106-0032, Japan
—–REGISTRATION REQUIRED—-
As a group of focused executives running great brands in Asia, CEO Insights tends to focus on leadership areas. There is not too much time to talk about the personal side outside of business.
In July, we’ll change that by dedicating a meeting to talk about personal investments. We will have the ‘Investor’s Circle’. In this special joint CI breakfast, we will be discussing the best places to put your resources, the timing, and the pluses and minuses. You will learn how to increase what you have for you, your family, and your dynasty to come.
Join us for a small investors group breakfast at Tokyo’s Grand Hyatt restaurant to discuss

market trading and the affects of the current market fluctuations on investments
gold, silver, and precious metals
the opportunities with real estate investments nationally and abroad
cyber currencies

You do not need to be an expert in this area, just be ready to share what you know and learn more. We are inviting specialists from real estate, finance, and even cyber currency to enhance this special meeting.
Come join us for this special breakfast and expand your future. YOU MUST BE REGISTERED.
**Please note we will be meeting in the private room “Wine Table” within the Grand Hyatt’s reknowned French Kitchen restaurant. Space is limited to 8 CEOs.

From Thirty Million Visitors to Zero, and Back? -- Rethinking Travel in Japan as the Border Re-opens
2022-07-21 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
An American residing in Japan since 1996, Carl founded and successfully sold a software localization company. He served as President of the Harvard Club of Japan from 2008-2016. Carl has consulted for companies including Uniqlo and has been an independent director at two mid-sized Japanese companies.
Since 2014 Carl has run Tokyo Way KK, a travel company he founded to serve the high-end inbound market of travelers seeking deep cultural experiences in Japan. He used some of the travel industry downtime during the pandemic to become Japan’s first Transformational Travel Designer as certified by the Transformational Travel Council (USA). He is co-author of a book on Japan’s services sector and taught at Meiji University Business school.

The presentation will cover three topics:
1. Brief update on current inbound travel situation in Japan
2. An overview of business models for the travel industry and Japan’s particular characteristics
3. What HNW individuals seek in travel to Japan, based on his own company’s experience with that segment

Join us for this fascinating event that will give you ideas for both your business and your personal lives.

Show Business- What Does It Take To Make It?
2022-08-09 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
There’s no business like show business… as the song goes at least. Movies, films, video.. we see a lot of successful films that come out. There are thousands of others that are not exactly so successful. In fact they probably lose money. What does it take to produce a movie? What are the costs, the popular genres, and other challenges to surmount? The good news is we can get answers to these questions directly from someone who has produced a film and is a regular CI networker.
In August, Stefan Sacre will be sharing his insights on a film he produced for his native market back in Germany. He’ll share his thoughts on this business and what he experienced. His years of business experience, keen eye for imagery, and Japan experience surely helped guide him in this creative venture.

Can Tokyo Become That Financial POWER House Now?
2022-09-13 12:30 - 14:00 | The Oak Door Steakhouse, 6th Floor Grand Hyatt Tokyo, 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato, Tokyo, 106-0032, Japan
Hong Kong and Singapore used to be amongst the ‘go to’ destinations for global businesses who wanted to establish regional headquarters in APAC. Every multi-national who wanted to have a global presence just had to have an office in one or both of these locations. But with growing geopolitical tensions over Hong Kong and Greater China, increasingly protectionist trends in Singapore and overly restrictive pandemic measures in both cities, these places no longer hold the same appeal. Perfect chance for Japan to step in with Tokyo as an option for MNCs around the world. Of course, Japan is not exactly perfect with fewer fluent English speakers or higher surface taxation than Singapore for example, but Tokyo has a lot of potential and advantages, a lot of which Japan has been sometimes clumsy at highlighting.
This bid by Japan and Tokyo to re-establish itself once again as a global financial center like London or New York has been in the news for a few years now. Can Japan step up to the plate and start hitting some homeruns that would bring in the MNCs? We’ll find out about Japan and Tokyo’s new strategy and concrete actions in September at the CI network lunch. We’ll welcome Mr. Laurent Depus, an ambassador for FinCity Tokyo, the promotional organ of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government, established in 2019 in close coordination with Japan’s central government (FinCity.Tokyo | The Organization of Global Financial City Tokyo). He is also a board member of SMBC Trust Bank with years of experience in Finance in Japan and globally. Laurent will share with us

What Japan is doing to attract global companies back to Japan
Challenges from the outside to Tokyo becoming a financial center
Regulatory changes necessary in order to keep this transformation moving

Join us for another fantastic event that will help you see the inside story as things transform around us.
More About Mr. Depus
A Belgian citizen, Laurent began his banking career in 1987 at the Chase Manhattan Bank in Luxembourg and has held senior leadership positions in the financial services industry for 35 years in Europe, South-East Asia and, since 1988, in Japan.
Experience in Banking, Securities, Trust Banking and Wealth Management, across US, European and Japanese institutions.
Appointed as a Director of the International Bankers Association in Japan (IBAJ) in 2012 and Vice Chairman in 2020-2021.
Chief Country Representative for France’s Societe Generale Group in Japan (2001-2013) and Natixis CIB (2014-2021)
In 2013, he joined SMBC Trust Bank as Chairman and Director upon the acquisition by SMBC of the Societe Generale Trust Banking license.
He has served as a Director of the Board at SMBC Trust Bank since its establishment.
He is the Representative Director of Escapade Japan Co. Ltd. supporting companies on governance, strategy and organizational matters.
(5) Laurent Depus | LinkedIn

“That Country Manager Has to Go!”
2022-09-15 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
That country manager has to go! This is a theme more common than you would expect. So many MNCs are chronically dissatisfied with who’s running the show for them in Japan that one of our members has built a business stepping into the breech on an “interim” basis. Some of these engagements run a few weeks and others last for years. This should be a lively round table discussion of how expectations get so far out of alignment and who’s to blame.
About Our Moderator-
Join the CEO Insights Network and member CEO Leo Keeley. Leo is one of the more well-known figures in the Japanese IT industry, with 25 years of sales, management and technology leadership experience. After receiving his BS from Bentley University and MBA from Suffolk University, Leo headed to Japan where he studied the Japanese language and business culture. He founded Japan B2B Sales (originally Japan Leadership) in 2004. The firm’s charter is to grow revenue, increase profitability and improve organizational efficiency for US IT firms. Clients have included Computer Associates, Dassault Systemes, HP, Peregrine Systems and Symantec. Prior to Japan B2B Sales, Leo served as VP – APAC-Japan for Ariba, Inc. He was successful in boosting sales and profitability as well as extricating the firm from an acrimonious joint venture in Japan.

OFF The Beaten Path- On The Sumida River
2022-09-29 14:30 - 18:00
By popular request, we are excited for a Tokyo discovery tour with Tokyo WAY CEO Mr. Carl Kay. He will be taking us off the beaten path to show us the blossoming Kuramae area along the Sumida River. You will get a chance to hear the history and see how the area is changing with its famous sites, skilled artisan entrepreneurs, and fantastic food.
This special tour is chance for you to experience the Tokyo that most people never see. The group size is extremely limited due to the nature of the tour. Please reserve your spot immediately if you intend to go.
*There is no charge from Tokyo Way or costs to cover for CEO Insights members. We suggest you support the local businesses by buying things if you see something you like along the way.
See you there!
**Unfortunately, we cannot accept walk ins for this event. If you cannot reserve a spot, please let us know and we will try to wait list you for an opening

Selling A New Business Idea to HQ and Making It Successful
2022-10-20 12:30 - 14:00 | Wine Private Room, French Kitchen 2nd Floor Grand Hyatt Tokyo 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-0032, Japan
One of the biggest challenges of being the CEO of a company with the headquarters outside of Japan is dealing with the HQ. People are always coming in looking to ‘advise’ and contribute their thoughts on what needs to be done as Japan can’t be all that different from other markets. Some with good intention and experience, while other ‘advisors’ might be qualified in their respective markets but lack local market and cultural experience. This is a common challenge for CEOs of foreign companies in Japan. Creative CEOs can be very successful if they are given a license. Building a new concept or customized product for the market can reap great rewards.

In the August CI lunch, we will welcome Andre Zimmerman. Mr. Zimmerman is a Swiss with a long time footprint in Japan. In 2010, he founded Lindt & Sprungli Japan and rolled out a very successful new business line for Lindt, one of the world’s largest Chocolatiers. The idea he built was Lindt Chocolate Cafes for people to enjoy Lindt chocolates along with a cup of coffee or tea (even Swiss herb tea). Whilst initial challenges were overwhelming, eventually, things went well and there are now 78 retail stores from Okinawa to Hokkaido.

Enjoy a great success story that will likely give you insights into how you can sell a concept to HQ and make it very successful.

Oct Thursday Group Event
2022-10-20 12:30 - 14:00

Where Is Japan's Economy Going? A Talk With Jesper Koll
2022-11-08 12:30 - 14:00 | The Oak Door Steakhouse, 6th Floor Grand Hyatt Tokyo, 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato, Tokyo, 106-0032, Japan
Japan has what it takes to be an economic superpower. As new global realities and national rivalries force unprecedented challenges and uncertainty for global leaders, Japan’s social resilience, political stability, corporate competitiveness, technocratic pragmatism, and private-sector innovation potential are poised to deliver positive upside surprises and real opportunities. No one doubts the potential; but can Japan really outperform on its own merits?

Join renowned economist Jesper Koll in person to learn:

Where to find growth opportunities
How your business can engage and profit from Japan’s new upcycle
What forces could derail progress
Why Japan’s demographic destiny is an overarching positive force for next-generation leaders and citizens

About the Speaker
An economist, angel investor, patron and, yes, Japan optimist, Jesper Koll has been researching and investing in Japan since becoming a resident in 1986. Over the past two decades, he has been consistently recognized as one of the top Japan strategists/economists, having worked as chief strategist and head of research for US investment banks J.P. Morgan and Merrill Lynch. He currently serves as global ambassador and expert director for the Monex Group and the Japan Catalyst Fund, Japan’s first retail investor-based corporate engagement/activist fund.

Koll’s analysis and insights have earned him a position on several Japanese government and corporate advisory committees, including Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike’s advisory board. In 2022, he was appointed global ambassador for Tokyo’s financial center initiative. He also serves as board director of the Okinawa Institute for Science and Technology and is a founder and board director of Asia Society Japan, where he heads the Policy Committee.

One of the few non-Japanese members of the Keizai Doyukai, the Japan Association of Corporate Executives, Koll also serves on the board of several Japan-based startups and has written three books in Japanese. In 2021, he created the acclaimed video podcast series Japan—Capitalism that Works.

Navigating Japan’s Retail Jungle- Establishing An International Fashion Brand
2022-11-17 12:30 - 14:00 | The Oak Door Steakhouse, 6th Floor Grand Hyatt Tokyo, 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato, Tokyo, 106-0032, Japan
If you’ve been to a retail shop in Tokyo, Osaka, or maybe one of the many malls around Japan you may not realize the work that it takes to open. Hundreds of brands come to Japan. Some are massively successful while others may be more of a ‘flash in the pan’. Besides having a big name, brands must have a momentum of marketing, product develop, locations, and most importantly the interest of the customers. For Japan, it’s a retail jungle out there and chances of survival are low.
In the November CI luncheon will we welcome our own member Mr. Wolfgang Bierer. He has brought many brands to Japan and successfuly seeded and run them in the market. Brands such as Mephisto, Porsche Design, Bree, Calida, have thrived under Mr. Bierer’s leadership. Wolfgang will share on the journey through the retail “jungle”, how he established brands, improved IT processes, the biggest potential pitfalls, and the best strategies that helped make his brands successful.
Join us for another insightful lunch of Japan’s top CEOs.

Investors Circle #2- Where To Put Your Personal Time and Money
2022-12-15 08:00 - 09:30 | The French Kitchen- Grand Hyatt, 6-10-3 Roppongi, 2nd Floor Grand Hyatt Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-0032
Back by popular demand! This is the second in our ‘Investors Circle’ series. This event is not about hiring, warehousing, or marketing of your products. The investors circle is a personal event where we learn from each other as well as guest specialists about what we can do to be successful personally. In this special lunch we will continue or discussion on investments, the stock market, and FOREX. If you are interested in

Real Estate
Stock Market/Forex
Cyber Currencies
Other ways to increase your ROI

Be sure to be there.
**Spaces are limited to the first 10 members.
***Meeting at French Kitchen in Grand Hyatt

Planning For Overflow Growth In The New Year For Your Organization
2023-02-02 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
CEOs are tasked with giving motivation and vision to their teams nationally and sometimes around the globe. It’s a lot of work to build a business. Sometimes life can be ‘lonely at the top” as c-levels don’t always get the tools, knowledge, and encouragement they need to take their firms to the next level.

As we open up the new year, CI network member bosses will get a chance to build their skills and better identify their targets and goals in the New Year. We’re excited to welcome executive coach Mr. Philippe Grall to our first lunch of the year. Philippe will lead us in an event to help bring out what you really want to be to achieve your goals in 2023.

This luncheon will be a joint event and space is limited. Please sign up early to secure your spot. See you on 2 Feb 2023 at 1230!

More About Mr. Grall–
Philippe is one of the world’s top personal coaches. He helps successful executives move into the realms beyond leadership and become inspiring role models — not only for their employees but for their families, friends, and all the people they influence.
His clients include international C-level executives from some of the world’s most prestigious companies, including Godiva, LVMH in Asia, Chanel, L’Oreal, Van Cleef & Arpels, Abbvie, and Amgen Biopharma.

Last year he was the co-author, with other world-renowned coaches, of a book, COACH ME Your personal board of directors.

CI Superbowl- The Ultimate Offsite
2023-02-13 07:30 - 22:30 | Tokyo American Club, 2-1-2 Azabudai, Minato-ku Tokyo, Japan
Strap in for a Monday morning like no other at Tokyo’s biggest Super Bowl party!
Catch every touchdown and tackle of the NFL Game Pass-streamed game live from Glendale, Arizona—with English commentary and the famous Super Bowl halftime show and commercials—all while enjoying a morning of game-day classics, drinks and cool prizes.
This is a joint CI event within the Tokyo American Club’s annual Superbowl bash. It’s less about the game and more about catching up with your c-level peers and friends.

How To Turn YouTube and Social Media Into An Invaluable Marketing Tool
2023-02-14 12:30 - 14:00 | The Oak Door Steakhouse, 6th Floor Grand Hyatt Tokyo, 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato, Tokyo, 106-0032, Japan
As the smartphone has killed the digital camera, YouTube and other social media has likely taken it’s toll on broadcast television around the world. What exactly is the power behind online marketing? How can it make or break your business? Recently, when asked by where youth saw their future careers in Japan, one in three responded that they would like to become a famous YouTuber.
In the February CEO Insights, we will welcome someone who has done it. Norm Nakamura has been building new models for business. His YouTube channel is popular and boasts Just under 700,000 subscribers with content grabbing up to 13,000,000 views per post. Norm will be sharing how he went from salaryman to entrepreneur and has taken advantage of the paradigm shift to online. He did not stop at one business but is in the process of starting multiple others. In the lunch we will talk about
– Where does the money come from?
– The Real Game – Has VERY little to do with making videos
– What happens when youtube disappears?
We look forward to seeing you in the November lunch. In the meantime, check out “Tokyo Lens” if you’d like to get a head start on the event.

Business Growth Through Acquisition
2023-03-14 12:30 - 14:00 | The Oak Door Steakhouse, 6th Floor Grand Hyatt Tokyo, 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato, Tokyo, 106-0032, Japan
Every brand and business is keen for growth. That growth can be in product sales, subscribers, and various other measurements of customers’ interest through purchases. A common strategy for accelerating growth is through acquisition of competitors or other complimentary businesses. Large or small growth through acquisition is one way to bring growth to the balance sheets.

There is no magic formula to make acquisitions successful. Like any other business process, they are not inherently good or bad, just as marketing and R&D aren’t. Each deal must have its own strategic logic. In our experience, acquirers in the most successful deals have specific, well-articulated value creation ideas going in.

In the March CI executive lunch we will discuss the best practices and experience with acquisitions for growth, additional productions, and team growth. The discussion will flow on from there.

Join us for this fascinating lunch and gain some insights into how you can expand your business, brand, and positive influence in your marketplace.

The Japanese LVMH That Never Was
2023-04-04 12:30 - 14:00 | The Oak Door Steakhouse, 6th Floor Grand Hyatt Tokyo, 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato, Tokyo, 106-0032, Japan
Great brands. Stunning hotels. Fantastic restaurants. Amazing craftsmen. Original beverages. The refined clientele that can appreciate sophistication. And the best global image there is. When it comes to luxury, Japan has it all. A very original example of a country having both a global popular and sophisticate culture, it could have created champions of luxury the way France did with LVMH, Kering or Richemont. Shiseido cosmetics, Mikimoto pearls, a Gora Kadan ryokan, an Issei Miyake could have bonded together with enough firepower to be global titans.

Sadly, the Japanese luxury industry seems to be decaying under our very eyes, while LVMH has never had it better in Japan. Not only are foreigners capturing the natural audience of Japanese brands ; they now plan to beat them at their own products : Former LVMH people make sake, and Hyatt opens ryokans. What is missing in Japan to create the same wealth recipe?

What makes LVMH both a stunning success in Japan and a mirror of Japan’s fallacies? Why has there never been a Japanese LVMH?

Our Guest Speaker-
Regis Arnaud has lived and worked in Japan for 27 years. He is the correspondent in Japan for French newspaper Le Figaro, Challenges, and editor of the Japanese-French magazine France Japon Eco. He also write regularly for Toyo Keizai, He is the co-author of Carlos Ghosn, The Fugitive (Toyo Keizai edition).

Cultivating a Culture of Well-Being: Insights for CEOs in Japan
2023-05-09 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
The May CEO Insights event will be focused on creating a happy and healthy work environment for teams, especially in light of Japan’s high suicide rate, often linked to stressful working conditions. With the added challenges of the ongoing pandemic, including remote work and social isolation, it’s more important than ever to prioritize mental health and well-being in the workplace.
We are excited to feature two excellent guest speakers who will share their insights and expertise. Maria Shimamura, a TED speaker, will discuss the cultural differences in physical touch and how it affects happiness in Japan. Vickie Skorji, the Director of TELL (Tokyo English Life Line), will talk about building confidence and improving mental health among Japan’s residents.
The event promises to equip attendees with practical strategies to create a positive and productive work environment that promotes well-being and team building. By leveraging the knowledge and expertise of our guest speakers, we hope to inspire business leaders to create “the happiest company on earth.”

Spring Reception- Evening On The Terrace
2023-05-18 18:30 - 20:30 | The French Kitchen- Grand Hyatt, 6-10-3 Roppongi, 2nd Floor Grand Hyatt Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-0032
Business is booming, Spring is here, and the floodgates are open! It’s time to get out of that silo and to rub elbows with Tokyo’s leading c-levels. If you’re running a business then you need connections with other CEOs for invaluable insights and inspiration. Don’t miss this chance to catch up with some business leaders you may know, and likely meet at lot of bosses that you don’t know in this rooftop spring reception.
On Thursday, 18 May from 630PM we’ll be gathering for great food, drinks, and networking at Grand Hyatt’s French Kitchen restaurant. We’ll be enjoying fresh air and the beautiful Spring sky on their Terrace. Please confirm your attendance below.

Inflation, Interest Rates, and The Future Of The Japan Magic Money Tree
2023-06-06 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
The world is in constant flux and does not seem to be limited to one particular region or nation. In the global arena, actions that affect one nation can – and often – have major impacts on others. With a three-decade high inflation and a seemingly unyielding grip on its monetary policy, what changes or developments can be expected in Japan? Furthermore, how is the BoJ’s control of interest rates affecting the future of business, labour, and inflation?
In June, we will welcome Dr. Rodrigo González, Tokyo Director of The Economist newspaper’s EICN division in Japan. Mr. González, who holds a Ph.D. in economics from Keio University, has closely studied the evolution of Japan’s economic landscape and regularly moderates plenary events for executive members in EICN’s corporate network. Rodrigo will lead us in a discussion about:

– Japan’s current economic directions and trajectory
– How interest rates may affect business expansion and investment

– How companies and consumers are dealing with high inflation
Join us for this great interaction on the economy where you will certainly leave with insights from other business leaders, as well as our guest speaker.
More on Rodrigo González
Dr. González works closely with regional business leaders to assist them in organisational and technological adaptability to foster business competitiveness, to quickly identify opportunities and risks from changes in market trends or public policy, and to broaden their business network and enhance their connections to their c-suite peers.
He has vast experience in statistical analysis, strategy consulting and market research in many different industries inside and outside Japan. He is a published author in academic journals and has presented his work at numerous conferences on economics and public policy throughout the world.

Lunch With LDP Diet Member - Lifting Japan's Productivity
2023-07-11 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
Following World War 2, the post-war generation of locals in Japan worked very hard to take the country from the pit to the pinnacle. Japan went from a land devastated by the war machine and industrial production wiped out, to the second largest economy in the world by GDP. There is no doubt that the people worked hard to attain economic success and prosperity for their children.
However, since the bubble burst, Japan has been experiencing little growth for more than three decades. Wage growth has stalled during that time. The third arrow of Abenomics was focused on growth strategies but didn’t really ripe fruit. Implementing a true growth strategy and improving productivity has always been a challenge for top politicians.
In July, we have the opportunity to meet with a Diet member in the controlling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP). Mr. Keiichiro Asao has been a Diet member for more than 20 years and is currently the Deputy Head of International Affairs within the LDP (国際局長代理). In the past, he was the Head of the House of Councilors Committee on Finance and Monetary Policy (参議院財政金融委員長) and headed the Your Party (みんなの党). Mr. Asao will be discussing how to improve Japan’s productivity as he thinks that improving productivity is the best solution for many of Japan’s problems. Deriving from this main theme, he can also discuss the following:

how to alleviate labor shortage issues by enhancing usage and promotion of foreign and female workers;
how to bring in more foreign investments into Japan;
how to promote Japan’s (particularly Tokyo’s) position as an international finance center; and
how to realize digital transformation

Apart from the main theme, he can also talk about the geopolitical situation surrounding Japan and defense-related issues, as well as many other political issues. This is the second time for Mr. Asao to speak at our lunch meeting. We are thankful that he is making the time to visit business leaders such as CEO Insights. We hope to gain insights from him and to suggest ideas that may help him make a positive influence on Japan, and our professional and personal futures.

Investor's Lunch Discussion- Japan's Hottest Investment Areas
2023-08-08 12:30 - 14:00 | Roppongi Hills Club – Restaurants, 51F Roppongi Hills Mori Tower, 6-10-1 Roppongi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-6151, Japan
Many companies spend money on development, training, production facilities and various other areas of their businesses to bring growth. As a c-level, many of us see investment from the corporate perspective. Investing is corporate, but it can also be personal. In the August CEO Insights meeting we will have an interactive lunch discussing investment successes and failures both in business and personally. This meeting will be an invaluable opportunity to talk about real estate, precious metals, the financial markets, acquistion, and many other areas of investments. We will be joined by C. James Lee, Managing Partner of GI Capital Management who is looking forward to hearing your experiences and sharing some of his own.
More about Jim Lee-
Prior to establishing GI Capital in 2010, Jim was co-heading the Equities Division for Deutsche Bank Japan as a Managing Director. Before joining Deutsche Bank Japan, Jim spent four years at UBS Japan managing the Japanese equities sales business as a Managing Director. He also worked for Goldman Sachs for 13 years, both in Japan and in the U.S., managing the Japanese cash equity business as a Managing Director. Jim also spent two years working for the Bank of Tokyo Ltd. in New York. Jim received a BA degree in International Relations from Tufts University in 1984, and an MBA degree from Columbia Business School in 1988.

Unlock the Power of ABM: B2B Marketing's Game Changer
2023-09-14 12:30 - 14:00 | The Oak Door Steakhouse, 6th Floor Grand Hyatt Tokyo, 6-10-3 Roppongi, Minato, Tokyo, 106-0032, Japan
Ever wondered how to elevate your B2B marketing strategy and truly connect with high-value accounts? Dive into the world of Account-Based Marketing (ABM), the transformative approach that’s reshaping B2B success!
ABM is a strategic approach to business marketing that targets high-value accounts rather than individual leads. It’s gaining traction in the B2B landscape due to its capability to identify and precisely target high-value customers with better results aided by rapid development in technology.
Robert Heldt, CEO and co-founder of Custom Media an award-winning B2B Marketing agency, will demystify the essence of ABM. At this luncheon you will discover:

The stark contrasts between ABM and traditional lead-generation tactics.
ABM’s powerful three-tiered strategy that’s a game-changer for businesses.
The undeniable benefits that translate to stronger relationships and amplified ROI.

This is your chance to get insights on how to transform your business and better service your clients

**Space LIMITED to 12 CEO Insights members

Fall Reception- Evening On The Terrace
2023-09-28 18:30 - 20:30 | The French Kitchen- Grand Hyatt, 6-10-3 Roppongi, 2nd Floor Grand Hyatt Tokyo, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-0032
Business is booming, FALL is here, and it’s been a great year! It’s time to get out of that silo and to rub elbows with Tokyo’s leading c-levels. If you’re running a business then you need connections with other CEOs for invaluable insights and inspiration. Don’t miss this chance to catch up with some business leaders you may know, and likely meet at lot of bosses that you don’t know in this rooftop spring reception.
On Thursday, 28 Sept from 630PM we’ll be gathering for great food, drinks, and networking at Grand Hyatt’s French Kitchen restaurant. We’ll be enjoying fresh air and the beautiful Spring sky on their Terrace. Please confirm your attendance below.
