Event Detail

Fashion, architecture, gaming, electronics, the arts, automobiles: Japan has contributed a wealth of innovation and creativity to the global economy. Much of what has been lauded occurred after the industrial growth of post-war Japan, and recent less auspicious times have led to a greater focus on the challenges and tragedies affecting the nation. However, creativity has not disappeared, and existed well before Japan's post-war economic growth began. It will be important that Japan rediscovers its creative flair as it competes in increasingly crowded markets, and this raises important questions for business leaders in Japan. Where is creativity living in Japan today? Who are the next generation of creative leaders? Can creativity reinvigorate Japan's sleeping giants? Are efficiency and operational excellence enough? The talk will reference recent examples from the areas of marketing, entrepreneurship and business innovation. Blake Harrop worked for 3 years in Samsung's Global Strategy Group in Seoul, Korea, and most recently was SVP of Marketing at digital advertising agency Digitas in New York. He holds an MBA from INSEAD and is currently Managing Director of Wieden+Kennedy Tokyo. VENUE: Tokyo American Club, Manhattan (B2) MAP: NOTE: This meeting is OFF THE RECORD