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

Our legal team plays a key role in enabling innovative initiatives involving cutting-edge technologies like AI and quantum computing. I have focused on supporting AI-driven solutions in the highly regulated healthcare sector, helping bridge the gap between business needs and compliance. Internally, we also face challenges as early adopters of technology in HR. Navigating the tension between global innovation and Japanese regulatory traditions, we strive to find the “right way” through thoughtful, cross-functional collaboration.

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

In times of instability or crisis, I believe the legal role is to bring clarity, calm, and direction, while enabling smart risk-taking. My approach is to stay close to both legal and business fundamentals: listening actively, identifying risks early, and prioritising what truly matters. Working cross-functionally to align on decisive actions and communicate transparently is also key to helping the organisation navigate uncertainty with integrity and agility.

Based on your experiences in the past year, are there any trends in the legal or business world that you are keeping an eye on that you think other in-house lawyers should be mindful of?

As business evolves rapidly, traditional legal skills alone are no longer sufficient, especially for in-house lawyers. We must understand a broad range of topics, learn continuously, and distill complex input from experts to make sound decisions. Our role is shifting from legal advisor to strategic partner. As technology advances and automates legal knowledge, human strengths, like communication, adaptability, and execution, will be even more essential for in-house success.

What is a cause, business or otherwise, that you are passionate about? Why is this?

I am passionate about helping businesses innovate responsibly. As technology evolves rapidly, I believe lawyers have a unique role in shaping how innovation benefits society. Navigating complex regulations, protecting business interests through contracts, and clearly explaining positions in negotiations, al while proposing practical solutions, is both challenging and deeply rewarding.