What are the most significant cases, projects or transactions that you and/or your legal team have recently been involved in?

Earlier this year, we established a dedicated operational team in Tokyo to enhance efficiency across our Legal & IP organisation. This team is focused on driving operational excellence through the adoption of technologies such as generative AI and other advanced tools. We are actively integrating these technologies into our workflows and processes to improve productivity and streamline operations. The team has made a strong start with several strategic initiatives underway, and I anticipate they will play a central role in our broader transformation efforts to maximise efficiency and impact.

How do you approach managing legal aspects during periods of instability or crisis to ensure the organisation’s resilience?

Our approach is rooted in being proactive and forward-thinking. This means not only reacting to challenges, but also anticipating them — supporting business growth, ensuring compliance, practicing preventive law, and upholding the highest ethical standards. These principles are embedded in our team’s mission and guide our day-to-day operations, enabling us to contribute to the organisation’s resilience and long-term stability.

Have you had any experiences during your career as a lawyer that stand out as particularly unique or interesting?

What stands out as particularly unique in my career as an in-house lawyer is the breadth of experience I’ve gained across diverse sectors—including manufacturing, technology, pharmaceuticals/biotech, and entertainment. This cross-industry exposure has shaped my perspective and adaptability. I believe one of the most important aspects of a successful legal career is developing a strong core skill set that can be applied across industries, combined with the humility and willingness to continuously learn when stepping into a new field.

What factors influence your team’s decision to use external legal services versus handling matters in-house, and what criteria are used to evaluate their performance?   

The primary factors are the complexity and risk level of the matter and its potential impact on the business. Our in-house team consists of highly skilled legal and IP professionals with diverse experience, so we handle most matters internally. However, when a case involves high risk, significant complexity, or requires specialised legal expertise, we engage external counsel based on their specific capabilities. In evaluating external firms, we consider several key criteria: their understanding of our industry and business, the quality and accuracy of their work, responsiveness, and cost efficiency. Strong alignment with our goals and values is also an important factor in building long-term partnerships.