The ACCJ's Kansai Chapter is headquartered in Osaka in the Dojima Park Building. The office serves members based in the principal Kansai cities of Osaka, Kobe, and Kyoto. The ACCJ Kansai office staff includes a Kansai administrative and membership director and an operations manager.
Kansai Membership Benefits
Click here: "Why Kansai?"
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Contact Information & Map
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 Dojima Park Bldg. 5F
1-1-8 Dojimahama, Kita-ku
Osaka 530-0004
Tel:81-6-6345-9880
Fax:81-6-6345-9890
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Osaka Staff
Keizo Yamada
Director - Kansai
Yuko Nakaoka
Operations Manager - Kansai
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Here is a map to the ACCJ's Osaka office.
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Kansai News
ACCJ Kansai Newsletters:
Kyoto Summer Outing (8/21)
July 2010
June 2010 No.2
June 2010 No.1
Kansai World Barbeque Classic II (KWBC II)
May 2010 No.2
May 2010 No.1
April 2010 No.1
April 2010 No.2
March 2010
February 2010
January 2010
December 2009
Joint Chamber Wine Party: ACCJ and The French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Japan (CCIFJ)
2010-07-15: This event was held in commemoration of Independence Day in America and Bastille Day in France. The Kansai Chapter's first joint chamber event with CCIFJ was fully booked and guests learned about Bastille Day, French wine and Champagne, all while enjoying American and French food in the glamorous atmosphere of the ANA Crowne Plaza Osaka's Lobby Lounge.
Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty welcome ACCJ and CCIFJ. ANA Crowne Plaza Osaka's beautiful ice sculptures of the Statue of Liberty and the Eiffel Tower. The sculptures took three days to create and were more than 2 meters in height.
First Drink Sponsor: LEASE JAPAN, A Division of H&R Consultants K.K. 's sponsorship card was displayed on each table along with the French and American flags.
Herman Ehrlich, Chair of the ACCJ Kansai Membership Committee, Alfonso Zulueta, ACCJ Governor - Kansai, and ACCJ Vice President - Kansai, Jiri Mestecky during the party.
Along with the Consul General of France, Mr. Philippe Janvier-Kamiyama and the Consul General of the United States, Mr. Ed Dong, guests enjoyed a Champagne toast to the development of a new relationship between ACCJ Kansai and the CCIFJ.
ACCJ members Darren Morrish, Ai Linford, Raymond Tait and Richard Rennie enjoying themselves during the party.
Design Management
2010-07-08: Mr. Daniel Kwintner of the design consulting department from Ingenious Design Act (IDA), a company whose work can be seen in products ranging from Chu-hai (Japanese cocktail) to dashi (Japanese soup stock), discussed the necessary steps to design a successful product in Japan. He showed the audience in an interactive presentation that cultural understanding is key to operating a successful design firm in Japan. He also went into detail about the process through which IDA analyzes not only the market, but also the consumer and the company itself in order to create a design that meets the goals of IDA¹s clients.
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Mr. Kwintner describing that design must remain consumer oriented in order to be successful.
ACCJ Vice President Jiri Mestecky Interviewed
2010-06-15: ACCJ Vice President Jiri Mestecky was interviewed by Yomiuri Shimbun regarding the recent ACCJ position paper calling for the establishment of a Kansai Promotion Board to bring increased trade, investment and tourism to the Kansai Region - cumulatively called the "One-Kansai Initiative." In the position paper, the ACCJ urges the Government of Japan to establish an aggressive and coordinated strategy to promote the Kansai Region. The article is available at Yomiuri Online/Kansai (Japanese only).
The full text of the position paper, The "One Kansai" Initiative is available at the following link http://www.accj.or.jp/doclib/vp/VP_1Kansai.pdf.
Agile and SaaS-Y! Keeping Ahead in Software Development Practices
2010-06-07: In the software development world, innovation is the name of the game. Mr. Laurent Safa, Director of Engineering at Silver Egg Technologies, explained what it takes to stay ahead in an industry where your product consists of easily duplicated code. Mr. Safa spoke about Silver Egg's unique application of the Agile software development manifesto, and how they have used it to create an adaptable work environment that can rapidly respond to change. He provided the audience with examples of the potential pitfalls of the system, and how his company has met these challenges in order to stay focused on the future of their product.
Mr. Laurent Safa, Director of Engineering at Silver Egg Technologies, in the mist of describing his company's product and the challenges it places on their software development teams.
Kansai World Barbecue Classic II (KWBC II)
2010-06-05: Team Australia, Team Canada and Team USA, joined this year by Team Euro, competed in the 2nd annual Japan Barbecue Association officially endorsed KWBC barbecue competition. Once again blessed with great weather, the Ramada Osaka's Rooftop Beer Garden provided the perfect atmosphere as more than 150 people watched the epic rematch take place.
This year both the judges and the crowd agreed that only one team was destined to come out on top, Team Australia. By securing both the judges' vote and the people's popular choice, there was little doubt that the other teams would have to go back to the drawing board. With Team Australia vowing to repeat, there is no doubt that next year will yield an even greater and more delicious result.
Setting the friendly rivalry aside, all the teams come together for a pre-barbecue group picture.
Team Australia - hard at work preparing their winning dish.
Team Canada - cooking their specially donated pork.
Team Euro - preparing their meal for the judges.
Team USA - unwrapping their baked potatoes.
Official Visit Governor Ido
2010-05-12: ACCJ Vice President and Kansai Chapter Head, Jiri Mestecky and ACCJ Kansai Leadership met with the Governor of Hyogo, Toshizo Ido in a closed meeting to request support for the 2010 ACCJ Kansai Walk-A-Thon, which will be held at Kobe Meriken Park on Saturday, October 16. With the Walk-A-Thon making its third appearance in Kobe, the Leadership was confident that corporations will again come out in full support of this annual charity event with the support of the Governor's office.
Luncheon Meeting with Mrs. Roos
2009-11-16: The ACCJ Kansai leadership welcomed Mrs. Susan Roos, wife of U.S. Ambassador to Japan John Roos, and a California labor lawyer on her first meeting with the ACCJ Kansai. Mrs. Roos and ACCJ Kansai members discussed labor laws and diversity issues in Kansai and Japan.
Although Mrs. Roos was unable to attend the 2009 ACCJ Kansai Charty Walk & Festival in October, the Ambassador was the Guest of Honor at both the BOG Reception the night before the event and at the Opening Ceremony. Women in Business Committee Chair Mari Nogami spoke about her experiences in the workplace and also as Chair of the committee. Mrs. Roos expressed strong interest in ACCJ Kansai's activities and asked how she and Ambassador Roos could help the ACCJ during their stay in Japan.
ACCJ Kansai Charity Walk & Festival Appreciation Party
2009-11-04: In recognition of and to celebrate the tremendous voluntary effort in making this year's ACCJ Kansai Charity Walk & Festival such a huge success, members and volunteers gathered together at the Garden City Club Osaka for the Charity Walk & Festival Appreciation Party.
On hand to be recognized were several of the Charity Walk & Festival Organizing Committee members who, although not members of the ACCJ, still put in long hours so that all could enjoy and participate in the activities at this year's Charity Walk & Festival. Without the support of such non-member volunteers, the sponsor booths, stage entertainment, food booths, kids' area, and working women's mini seminar/workshop could not have been as successful.
The ACCJ Kansai Chapter is honored and proud that so many non-members devoted their precious time to support our activity.
Michael Bobrove VP-Kansai makes an appreciation speech to all members and volunteers.
Halloween Haunted House (Rokko Island Halloween Festival 2009)
2009-10-31: ACCJ Kansai presented "Halloween Haunted House" in conjunction with the annual Rokko Island Halloween Festival. Thousands of people came to this festival and the Haunted House was one of the most popular attractions. Members and volunteers teamed up to scare Kansai community kids. The event started from 11 a.m., with a costume parade followed by a Costume Contest that was one of the most popular programs, and finished with our great success of the "ACCJ Haunted House" at 8 p.m. Our member companies (Price Club, Hotel Plaza Kobe and Kobe Bay Sheraton Hotel & Towers) sponsored candy for the "treat" and attracted many children to the "trick," or Haunted House.
Cancer Deaths in Japan: Reformation of Clinical Oncology Trials
2009-10-26: Doctor Ken Kobayashi, Head of Translational Medicine Oncology for Novartis Pharmaceutical's Oncology Development Division, oversees a network of collaborations with twelve preclinical investigators, twenty clinical institutions, and a portfolio of ten phase I/II clinical trials. In the four years since its creation, this group more than tripled the number of phase I studies initiated in oncology by Novartis Japan, compared with the previous five years. Dr. Kobayashi discussed his views on how Japan might become more competitive through full engagement of international clinical drug development trials. He touched upon his success at Novartis Pharma - generating an early clinical development capability in Japan and founding a phase I group of 21 staff conducting both preclinical and early clinical studies within only four years of beginning his assignment.
Dr. Kobayashi is convinced that there is a solution to Japan's drug lag issue. He is passionate about improving Japan's competitive position to fight the scourge of cancer and has worked tirelessly to grant Japanese sufferers access to newer and better drugs.
The New Economy: International Economic Outlook
2009-10-23: Dr. Somnath Basu, Professor of Finance at California Lutheran University, Director of its California Institute of Finance, and Professor of the Helsinki School of Economics Executive MBA Program, presented his international economic outlook to ACCJ members. Dr. Basu spoke about how the recent debacle in the financial markets has opened up a plethora of issues that require serious attention from all market participants. He stated that perhaps the most serious concern is the emergence of a "mixed" economy where both public and government-owned enterprises will coexist with private enterprises. In his view, the historical performances of such economies have been fairly dismal since these conditions are bound to usher in additional regulation of financial markets. He further explained that such new regulations are likely to focus on ways to mitigate the probability of similar failures in the future, however, he noted that the structure of regulation should not be constructed on the basis of how the markets failed the people but instead on how people failed the market.
Growth! Bloomberg LP Speaks to Kansai
2009-10-16: Mr. Peter T. Grauer, Chairman of Bloomberg LP, has overseen the company's expansion from its core business of providing real-time financial data to its current position as one of the world's largest news-gathering organizations. Mr. Grauer, a frequent visitor to Japan, took the opportunity of his first trip to Kansai to speak to business and political leaders from the region. He outlined Bloomberg's Asia expansion strategy amid the financial crisis.
2009 ACCJ Kansai Charity Walk & Festival
2009-10-03: The 2009 ACCJ Kansai Charity Walk & Festival, blessed with beautiful weather, was held on Saturday, October 3, 2009, from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm at Osaka, Nakanoshima Park. More than 4,500 people were estimated to have passed through the event sight with at least 2,000 people actively participating in the festivities. Special guests that attended the opening ceremony were the U.S. Ambassador to Japan Mr. John Roos and Mr. Billy Blanks, the 'Taicho' of Billy's Boot Camp, who led the warm-up exercises.
The 2009 Charity Walk & Festival continues to be a unique and strong asset of the ACCJ Kansai's efforts toward Kansai community support and diversity. ACCJ Kansai again obtained tremendous support and recognition from the U.S. Embassy, Osaka Prefecture and City, and the ACCJ BOG, including personal remarks from ACCJ President Tom Whitson.
Full dedication from ACCJ Kansai, including EXCOM, CSC and WIB committees, office staff, passionate team members and volunteers made it possible to manage this large-scale event for charity. The Task Force and Charity Walk team worked for the last 6 or more months to make this event work. Congratulations to all for a job well done! For more on the event: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEUvj_7NFsY&feature=player_embedded#
Opening Ceremony - ribbon-cutting.
Group photo - Ambassador Roos, Mr. Billy Blanks, Kansai government officials, Sponsors and ACCJ Leadership.
Warm-up Exercise with Billy Blanks.
An Evening with the Board of Governors of the ACCJ
2009-10-02: The ACCJ leadership and local government leaders gathered for a very special evening at the Mayor's Mansion in Osaka. This special gathering featured a large number of the ACCJ Board of Governors and officials from the surrounding prefectures and city governments. Other special guests were the recently arrived Honorable U.S. Ambassador to Japan Mr. John Roos and, as a special guest, Mr. Billy Blanks, the 'Taicho' of Billy's Boot Camp, who led the warm-up exercises for the Charity Walk and Festival the following day.
The evening focused on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and how the American business community in Japan is a driving force in this area. With the ACCJ Kansai's premier CSR event, the Charity Walk and Festival, scheduled to be held on the following day (October 3rd), the Kansai Chapter welcomed members and guests to a very special networking event to kickoff an exciting weekend full of festivities.
This year's sponsor company representatives, P&G and Eli Lilly, shared their companies' thoughts on diversity.
Mayor Hiramatsu welcomes Ambassador Roos.
Guests gathered in the Reception Hall of the Osaka Mayor's Mansion.
Ms. Vanessa Asell, Fitness Walking Global Merchandising Coordinator for Asics Corporation in Kobe
2009-09-15: Ms. Vanessa Asell, Fitness Walking Global Merchandising Coordinator for Asics Corporation Head Office in Kobe, Japan, related stories of her life working in Japan to the different feelings that a "NY marathon runner" experiences (from Brooklyn to the crazy Obama-powered Bronx). She spoke of her positive stories and milestones and also the tougher parts, such as crossing the high bridges and the 100-block stretch on First Avenue - similar to the challenges as the first Westerner and woman at Asics.
Ms. Vanessa Asell, with Asics shoes and the same outfit she wore during a NY marathon, speaks on her career and marathon experiences.
ACCJ Kansai FALL Meishi Exchange
2009-09-10: The ACCJ Kansai FALL Meishi Exchange was held on Thursday, September 10 from 6:30 pm - 9:00 pm at Sky Banquet, "Ciel Bleu" on the 35th floor of the Swissotel Nankai Osaka in Namba. The Swissotel chefs under the careful direction of Swiss native & General Manager, Mr. Christian Schaufelbuehl, created an authentic feast of SWISS delights including Raclette Cheese over potatoes garnished with pickles & gherkins and popular desserts.
We also welcomed Mr. Dieter Sommerhalder, Consulate-General of Switzerland, and the traditional Swiss Ensemble, ENZIAN. From the Alpine horn welcome, we were all treated to a visit to Switzerland for the night. There were chances to win prizes including Lunch, Dinner & Stay Vouchers from Swissotel Nankai Osaka plus prizes from other member companies such as Garden City Club Osaka, Hotel Plaza Kobe, Billboard Live Osaka, Kobe Bay Sheraton, and Hilton Osaka.
Authentic Swiss food prepared for ACCJ members and guests.
Alphorn Greeting and Swiss traditional Yodel.
Mr. Christian Schaufelbuehl, General Manager of Swissotel Nankai Osaka with custom-tailored chef's wear serves authentic Swiss dishes for ACCJ member and guest.
ACCJ Kansai Exclusive Event CIRQUE DU SOLEIL - Corteo
2009-09-01: The family spirit of ACCJ Kansai came out as 38 adults and 15 children enjoyed the spectacular CIRQUE DU SOLEIL - Corteo show at the Nakanoshima, New Bigtop. The event included an exclusive after the show in a theatre presentation by Ms. Heather Reilly, General Manager, Corteo, on the show and background of CIRQUE DU SOLEIL. There was also a question and answer session followed by a backstage tour for children.
Some of the comments received from participants: "World class family entertainment. The show itself was great and the speech afterwards was very informative;" "Arranging to hear from the General Manager and a tour for the kids greatly enhanced the overall experience and added a lot of value;" "Great show, enjoyed everything about it, good for the kids and family as well."
Ms. Heather Reilly, General Manager, Corteo tells the secrets of CIRQUE DU SOLEIL and the show, Corteo.
"Asia's Post Lehman World" sponsored by HSBC Premier - Featuring: Bloomberg News' Asia Pacific Columnist, Mr. William Pesek Jr.
2009-08-26: ACCJ Kansai, HSBC Premier and Bloomberg teamed up to provide an informative business seminar that focused on how the economy and financial markets have changed since the Lehman Brothers crash last year and where we are headed. The seminar also focused on how Asia will play an important factor in reshaping our changing world environment.
Official Visit to Mayor Kawashima of Nagahama City
2009-08-25: Michael Bobrove ACCJ Vice President - Kansai made an official courtesy call on ACCJ corporate member Nobuya Kawashima, Mayor of Nagahama City, Shiga Prefecture. During their meeting the Mayor expressed his desire to create a closer relationship between the ACCJ and Nagahama City. In a follow on to this visit, the Mayor paid a visit to ACCJ Tokyo to meet with Executive Director Sam Kidder.
Michael Bobrove with the Mayor of Nagahama City. Mr. Nobuya Kawashima.
Summer Beer Garden Party
2009-08-06: The ANA Crowne Plaza Osaka's Beer Garden on the 5th floor terrace, popular for it's great food & drink menu and atmosphere, is completely sold out almost every night. However, as ACCJ Kansai's 10th and newest corporate hotel member, the hotel went out of its way to prepare a table for ACCJ members to enjoy the festivities.
Mr. Richard Rennie, General Maneger of the hotel, gave us a warm welcome with complimentary Champagne for the "Kanpai" and several prizes including a weekend stay at the Club Floor of the hotel for the raffle. The hotel also prepared a big strawberry shortcake for us! Hard Rock Cafe Osaka and the Garden City Club Osaka also donated prizes for the raffle.
Members and guests enjoying the special area prepared for them by the hotel.
Mr. Richard Rennie, General Manager of the ANA Crowne Plaza Osaka, draws a name for one of the raffle prizes.
Members and guests gathered around the big strawberry shortcake.
Compliance Issues in Japan
2009-07-23: Mr. Yutaka Kiso, Attorney, Kitahama Partners, a former prosecutor and presently an attorney with Kitahama Partners, a leading Japanese law firm specializing in international matters, spoke on the theme of "Business Compliance - Issues for Foreign Companies." He explained his professional analysis regarding vital compliance issues for foreign companies in Japan.
In his presentation, Mr. Kiso presented a case study based upon the recent, well-known incident involving the death of a Japanese boy in an elevator manufactured by Schindler Elevator. He addressed questions such as why a large, world-famous company such as Schindler Elevator, which was previously thought to have been taking sufficient safety measures, suffered such damage to its reputation in Japan that the company could still not obtain new contracts more than two years after the incident.
ACCJ Kansai Leadership makes official visit to Mayor Yada of Kobe City
2009-07-22: The Leadership of ACCJ Kansai, Vice President - Kansai, Michael Bobrove, Community Service Committee Chair, Kojiro dan and External Affairs Committee Chair, Kiran Sethi met with Mayor Yada of Kobe City.
During the meeting the ACCJ Kansai Leadership reconfirmed ACCJ's commitment to the Kansai Region and requested support for this year's 2009 ACCJ Kansai Charity Walk & Festival event to be held in Nakanoshima, Osaka on Saturday, October 3 from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Mayor Yada, Michael Bobrove (seated front row), Kojiro Dan and Kiran Sethi.
ACCJ Kansai Leadership makes official visits to Kansai Organizations
2009-07-17: The Leadership of ACCJ Kansai, Vice President - Kansai, Michael Bobrove, Governor - Kansai, Jiri Mestecky and External Affairs Committee Chair, Kiran Sethi, met with the Kobe Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Chairman Mizukoshi, the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), Vice Chairman Kato and the Kansai Economic Federation, Vice Chairman Matsushita.
During the meetings the ACCJ Kansai Leadership reconfirmed ACCJ's commitment to the Kansai Region and requested support for this year's 2009 ACCJ Kansai Charity Walk & Festival event to be held in Nakanoshima, Osaka on Saturday, October 3 from 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.
Kiran Sethi and Michael Bobrove with Chairman Mizukoshi and other officials of the Kobe Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Kiran Sethi (3rd from left), Jiri Mestecky, Osaka Chamber of Commerce & Industry Vice Chairman Kato, Michael Bobrove and Director Kohzuki (OCCI).
Kansai Economic Federation Vice Chairman Matsushita and Michael Bobrove, Vice President - Kansai (front row) Kiran Sethi (3rd from left) and Jiri Mestecky (back row).
ACCJ Kansai Meishi Exchange
2009-06-25: A great success with an outstanding turnout of more than 100 enthusiastic participants, the event had a Mexican theme with 10 cases of Corona beer donated by Mitsukura Corporation (Price Club). A total of 8 door prizes (7 for members and 1 for guests) including a set of 4 tickets to see the Hanshin Tigers play the Yakult Swallows at Koshien Stadium, donated by Douglas Schafer (Toyo Beverage), were raffled off to the delight of all..
A special ceremony was also included to present Erica Kitamura with the first ever ACCJ Kansai Walk-A-Thon Scholarship Award, given to an outstanding female to support her university or higher level education. Erica was unanimously selected by the ACCJ Kansai Executive Committee for her contributions to the design of the official Walk-A-Thon logo in 2007 (contest winner), 2008 (contest winner) and 2009 (appointed by Kansai EXCOM) among other contributions to receive a 2.53 GHz MacBook Pro to support her studies in design. She will attend the Virginia Commonwealth University this Fall.
Edward Dong, U.S. Consulate General, gives the toast with Corona Beer.
Attendees exchange Meishi in a casual atmosphere with live Mariachi music.
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ACCJ Kansai Walk-A-Thon Scholarship Award is given to Erika Kitamura by Kojiro Dan, Community Service Committee Chair.
HSBC's Strategy in Japan
2009-06-11: Mr. Francois Moreau, Managing Director & Head of Personal Financial Services, HSBC Japan, gave the audience an insight into HSBC's strategy for the Japanese market and also spoke about his experience and the challenges faced starting this banking business in Japan, which is highly competitive and governed strictly by Japanese banking law. Having also worked for HSBC in other countries, Mr. Moreau also highlighted some of the specifics of the Japanese market. Held at P&G's Auditorium on Rokko Island the speaker and the attendees enjoyed this strategy focused Leadership Series event.
Following the event a networking party was held at the Hotel Plaza Kobe which provided excellent service thanks to strong staff dedication and the warm hospitality of the Hotel's president who was present throughout the event.
Business Committee member Akio Matsumoto thanks Mr. Francois Moreau.
Kansai World Barbecue Classic (KWBC)
2009-06-06: Team Australia, Team Canada and Team USA with the official blessing of the Japan Barbeque Association competed in what will go down in ACCJ Kansai Chapter History as one of the most hotly contested events of all time. Blessed with fantastic weather, the perfect venue at the Ramada Osaka Rooftop Beer Garden and more than 100 BBQ enthusiasts all 3 teams did their best to come out on top.
The official judges vote gave Team Canada, a Kansai/Nagoya tie-up, lead by Chris Campbell and Allan Edwards 1st prize overall. The people's popular vote went to Team Australia leaving Team USA 'heading back to the practice grill' for a rematch in the Fall.
With a 48% response rate to the Event Survey and only Excellent or Very Good responses for Overall Quality it was truly a monumental event for ACCJ Kansai.
Team USA - wearing uniforms specially prepared for the event.
Team Canada - hard work leads to victory.
Team Australia - the people's popular choice.
Official judges with a view of the festivities in the background.
ACCJ Kansai MARKETING IN A DOWN ECONOMY; REINFORCE DON'T REINVENT
2009-05-28: In down markets, many companies see the marketing function as the first area in which to cut costs. Mr. Vucsko discussed the opposing strategy by illustrating the value of a continued marketing effort even during revenue drops and diminished growth. He went on further to comment on the importance of using marketing budgets wisely for brand reinforcement, and the pitfalls of introducing new products, service and marketing during these difficult times.
Barry Vucsko fields questions from the audience after his very stimulating presentation on brands and marketing.
Currently a Creative Director, at Dentsu Inc. in Osaka, Japan, Barry Vucsko is an accomplished international marketing professional with 20 years of experience in brand strategy, advertising, sales promotion and interactive design and development.
2009-05-15: ACCJ Vice President and Kansai Chapter Head, Michael Bobrove, ACCJ Kansai Governor Jiri Mestecky and ACCJ Kansai Community Service Committee Chair, Kojiro Dan, met with the Mayor of Osaka, Kunio Hiramatsu, and his advisors at Osaka City Hall in a closed meeting to request support for the 2009 ACCJ Kansai - Charity Walk & Festival - to be held at Nakanoshima on Saturday, October 3 as part of the Aqua Metrpolis Osaka 2009 festivities. With the Charity Walk & Festival making its second appearance in Osaka, Mr. Bobrove, Mr. Mestecky and Mr. Dan were confident that corporations will again come out in full support of this annual charity event with the support of the Mayor's office.
The Mayor of Osaka, Kunio Hiramatsu, accepts the Charity Walk & Festival trophy upon hearing that Osaka was chosen as the site of the 2009 ACCJ Kansai Chapter Charity Walk & Festival.
ACCJ Kansai Governor Jiri Mestecky, Mayor of Osaka, Kunio Hiramatsu, ACCJ Vice President and Kansai Chapter Head, Michael Bobrove and ACCJ Kansai Community Service Committee Chair, Kojiro Dan at City Hall.
The Greater Value of Pharmaceuticals
2009-05-14: Mr. Alfonso (Chito) Zulueta, President & General Manager of Eli Lilly Japan, exemplifies a career distinguished by consistent achievement. This led to his taking the reigns of Japan operations.
At the event he put into context the value of pharmaceuticals by highlighting how, for example, in the U.S. for every dollar spent on newer medicines replacing older medicines, healthcare costs are reduced by $6.17 and how new treatments have cut the death rate from heart disease over the past 30 years by 50 percent. In addition, Mr. Zulueta identified and suggested solutions for overcoming key barriers in Japan to the growth of a knowledge-based, globally competitive Japanese pharmaceutical industry.
Panasonic: Overseas Marketing Strategy & Practice
2009-04-23: Electronics is one of the growth engines of Japan, and Panasonic is at the center of the industry. Mr. Hitoshi Otsuki, Senior Managing Director and Panasonic's Head of Global Business, spoke about Panasonic, its overseas marketing strategy and gave several examples of its execution. He also shared his views and experiences in doing business overseas.
Mr. Hitoshi Otsuki concludes his presentation at the Hilton Osaka's Naniwa Room. HIs presentation was followed by a networking party during which time everyone in attendance had the chance to speak with him personally.
Mr. Otsuki joined Panasonic in 1970. He was deeply involved in the early days of development of overseas markets for microwave ovens. He became President of Panasonic UK in 2000; Chairman and CEO of European Business in 2003. He became Managing Director and Head of Global Business in 2007 and is currently leading Panasonic's growth in overseas markets.
A 21st Century Business Model where Corporate and Non-Profit Sectors Meet
2009-04-14: The relationship between the corporate and non-profit sectors used to be adversarial, but not any longer. Exciting and effective new business models are emerging, where business and charities not only work together but positively contribute to each others' success.
Bill Werlin, a seasoned corporate leader who has spent a lifetime in the apparel industry, became the General Manager of the Burton Snowboard group of companies in Japan as of April 1, 2009. Prior to Burton, Bill was the General Manager of Patagonia Japan and built Patagonia Japan into a nationally known brand with stores in Kansai, Chubu and Kanto. At the same time, Bill is a thoughtful environmental activist who has forged numerous meaningful relationships with grassroots NGOs. He shared stories from his years of experience in the apparel industry on how the corporate world and NGOs can not only coexist, but also create synergies that result in profits for the company and the better good of the planet. Bill's personal insights both inspired and informed the near to capacity audience as to how companies can make a difference.
Relevant To Japan: The China Environment & Establishing Pharmaceutical Operations
2009-03-24: Recognizing that East Asia has been rapidly gaining importance as a venue of today's world wide drug development, the cooperation among the three countries in order to facilitate drug and therapeutics development is significant. But how do Big Pharma and small bioventures find their place in this? What can they expect of China? And what strategies for establishing themselves can they rely on? Mr. Toyoda answered these and many more intriguing questions concerning establishing pharmaceutical operations no only in China but overseas in general.
Mr. Shigeru Toyoda (speaker, photo left), Strategic Research & Alliances Manager for Takeda Pharmaceutical Company, has over 30 years experience with China and Taiwan.
The New Asahi Towers & An Op-Ed View on Kansai's Role in Japan Policy Formation
2009-03-03: Mr. Ikeuchi was long in charge of covering the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) faction previously led by former Prime Minister Kakuei Tanaka. He is also fully acquainted with the current leader of the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ), Ichiro Ozawa. With the general elections in the near future, we may face a new government. But, who is Mr. Ozawa? What does he bring to the table? And how might Kansai find a role in forming national policy under a new government? Mr. Ikeuchi presented his analysis and anecdotes of a "long-in-the-tooth" liberal news reporter in the know.
Mr. Fumio Ikeuchi, Representative Managing Director of The Asahi Shimbun Company and Director in Charge of Osaka Nakanoshima New Building Construction for the new Asahi Towers building complex going up in Osaka.
Managing Risk Through the Evolving Financial Crisis
2009-02-27: Ms. Taniguchi discussed how to mitigate risk in our business operations. Drawing upon 15 years of experience in external auditing in both the U.S. and in Japan, Ms. Taniguchi advised and answered questions on how best to survive these trying times.
Yasumi Taniguchi (speaker, photo center) is a founding Managing Director of Protiviti Japan and leads the ERM & Internal Audit Practice.
Building Superior Brands in Turbulent Economic Times
2009-02-19: Ms. Kosobud gave the 1st Leadership Series presentation of 2009 on the key principles of sustainable growth. She explained why they are applied in good times and become absolutely critical in the volatile economic times of today. She also discussed how to balance these principles during the product development cycle and through initiative planning. She then explained to the audience how to both reduce business risk and optimize brand performance.
Diane Kosobud, Ipsos President and Global Account Director for Procter & Gamble responsible for building brand equity worldwide.
Triangular Mergers: A New Vehicle For Acquisitions In Japan
2009-01-28: Mr. Taisuke Igaki, Partner with Kitahama Partners' Osaka office who specializes in M&A transactions, and Mr. Yujiro Arakawa, Partner with Kitahama Partners' Tokyo Office who specializes in Japanese tax law, presented one of the ways for non-Japanese corporations to complete acquisitions in Japan through a merger procedure called the "triangular merger." An outline was presented on how to acquire Japanese corporations using the triangular merger from the perspective of a non-Japanese acquirer in light of: (i) procedures under Japan's Corporation Law and Financial Products and Exchange Law, and (ii) tax deferral under Japan's Corporate Tax Law. Allowing questions to be asked during their presentation created a lively exchange of questions and opinions during the nearly 2 hour presentation.
Yujiro Arakawa receives his Certificate of Appreciation from ACCJ Governor - Kansai, Jiri Mestecky.
Behind the Scenes at Daimaru
2008-12-18: In a first for the Kansai Chapter, members and guests were able to partake in a special VIP tour of the Daimaru Shinsaibashi store in Osaka prior to the December Leadership Series event featuring Yasuyuki Kobayashi of Daimaru. From the time that he entered Daimaru in 1973, Mr. Kobayashi has been well traveled within the company, working in Hakata, Osaka, Kobe, Sapporo, and Tokyo.
Yasuyuki Kobayashi, Corporate Officer and Executive General Manager, Daimaru, elaborates on his career to the audience at the Daimaru Shinsaibashi store in Osaka.
Since opening in 1717 in Kyoto, Daimaru has blossomed into 18 stores nationwide with the Sapporo store launched in 2003. Following that successful opening, Mr. Kobayashi was asked to reinvigorate the flagship Tokyo Daimaru. Again, he succeeded in creating a fashionable image and highly desirable place to shop in the heart of affluent Japan.
"Sustainable Development in America"
2008-12-12: Highlighting the fact that the population of California is expected to double to more than 75 million people over the next 50 years, Josh Knoefler of Knoefler Enterprises spoke about how the Green Village Redevelopment Project in San Diego is designed to provide energy and water for residents at a time when energy and water shortages are on the rise in California.
Josh Knoefler, President, Knoefler Enterprises Inc., illustrates a point to the audience regarding the Green Village Redevelopment Project.
With over 1,100 residential units, commercial real estate, and park facilities planned, Green Village will incorporate eco-friendly "green" concepts such as alternative energy sources and a recycled water system that could produce reclaimed water for irrigation, common facilities and high-tech cooling water systems in a land locked region fronted by the Pacific Ocean, Mexico, and mountain ranges to the East.
"How to Think Like a Designer and Why It Matters"
2008-12-02: Back at Procter & Gamble's auditorium for the second time this year, Garr Reynolds focused his talk on the design element in presentations to captivate one's audience through visual communication.
If, over the years, presentation software such as PowerPoint has gotten better, why have presentations not? In response, Mr. Reynolds stated that part of the problem lies in presenters only focusing on how to use the presentation software tools themselves instead of how to amplify their own ideas and messages.
ACCJ Kansai member and presentation design guru, Garr Reynolds, engages in an interactive conversation with the audience at P&G located on Rokko Island in Kobe.
To sum up his presentation, Mr. Reynolds mentioned that there are ten fundamental design principles that one should recognize and adhere to, which are:
1. It's not about the tools
2. Start in analog mode
3. Take a risk, lose the fear
4. Look for the "strong"
5. Put yourself in their shoes
6. Show restraint
7. Remember: vision trumps all other senses
8. Aim for a high signal-to-noise ratio
9. Embrace empty space
10. Learn to see the lessons all around you
Meeting the Governor of Osaka
2008-11-28: In the first formal meeting between the ACCJ and Osaka Governor Toru Hashimoto, Jiri Mestecky and Kiran Sethi informed the Osaka Governor about the ACCJ Kansai's recent activities, such as the 2008 Walk-A-Thon, and the overall mission of the ACCJ.
(Left to right) External Affairs Committee Chair Kiran Sethi, Osaka Governor Toru Hashimoto, Kansai Chapter Governor Jiri Mestecky, and Kansai Chapter Office Director Keizo Yamada pose for the camera after their meeting.
From his side, the Governor stressed the importance of foreign direct investment (FDI) into the area and highlighted the recent projects that the prefecture has undertaken to make it an attractive destination for foreign capital. He was also very enthusiastic about holding next year's Walk-A-Thon in the Nakanoshima redevelopment area.
Recent Developments in the Japanese Anti-Monopoly Act
2008-11-27: Specializing in the Anti-Monopoly Act as an attorney at Kikkawa Law Offices in Osaka, Professor Akira Negishi dissected the Anti-Monopoly Act for ACCJ members and guests. Professor Negishi clearly outlined the four actions prohibited by the act 1) private monopolization, 2) cartels, 3) unfair trade practices, and 4) mergers.
Akira Negishi, Professor Emeritus, Kobe University, and Economic Law Professor, Konan Law School, receives a question from the audience at the Osaka Securities Exchange Building.
Professor Negishi also highlighted the Japan Fair Trade Commission (JFTC)'s involvement in cases brought against the Marine Hose sector, Microsoft Corporation, and Yamada Denki in 2008 as examples of how the act is applied.
2008 ACCJ-JASO Thanksgiving Dinner
2008-11-20: For the second consecutive year, the ACCJ Kansai Chapter along with the Japan America Society of Osaka (JASO), held a special turkey dinner in celebration of Thanksgiving. With over 100 people in attendance at the Mayor's Mansion located in Miyakojima, Osaka, participants were able to enjoy turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, gravy, etc.
ACCJ & JASO members and guests sample the Thanksgiving feast provided for them at the Mayor's Mansion.
ACCJ member Brenda Panichi (left) poses with Iwao Yokoyama and Mary Anne Jorgensen during the 2008 Thanksgiving Dinner.
The Osaka-based comedy troupe the Pirates of Dotombori were also on hand to provide some entertainment as a special feature. In addition, several participants went home with some lovely prizes from the prize raffle drawing courtesy of Panasonic Corporation and Yellow Tail.
An Assessment of the November U.S. Elections
2008-11-17: In from Washington D.C., Douglas Bergner, who co-founded Global Policy Group, gave an in-depth look into what lies ahead for the Obama Administration once it is firmly in place in January 2009.
With the Democrats gaining a majority in the House of Representatives and close to holding a majority in the Senate, President-elect Obama and the Democratic party should be able to get most of their supported issues passed in Congress.
Douglas Bergner, President, Global Policy Group, breaks down what challenges the Obama Administration faces at the Robert Half Osaka office.
Mr. Bergner remarked that President-elect Obama, who is attempting to run as close to a non-partisan campaign as can be, may run into roadblocks in dealing with "his" government, which is being characterized as more "left" than him.
Regarding the deficit, Mr. Bergner added that it could possibly swell to over one trillion yen for the 2009 fiscal year, so President-elect Obama does have his work cut out for him after he is sworn in on January 20, 2009.
Walk-A-Thon Appreciation Reception
2008-11-14: In recognition of and to celebrate the tremendous voluntary effort in making this year's ACCJ Kansai Walk-A-Thon a huge success, the Kansai Chapter held a Walk-A-Thon Appreciation Reception at the Ramada Osaka. As a showing of thanks to those non-members who greatly contributed to the event, Vice President Michael Bobrove and Community Service Committee Chair Kojiro Dan recognized all those who went above and beyond the call of duty to make the 2008 Walk-A-Thon the success that it was.
ACCJ members and guests mingle during the reception held to signify the recent success of the 2008 Walk-A-Thon.
Osaka Bay Industrial Cruise
2008-11-06: Thanks in part to the Osaka Business & Investment Center (O-BIC), ACCJ members and guests were able to board the city of Osaka's public relations boat for a special tour of the ongoing construction around Osaka Bay. With the U.S. Consul General Edward Dong in attendance, participants were able to view Sharp Corporation's massive LCD panel manufacturing facility from the water among other sites still under construction.
ACCJ members and guests stand for a group photo prior to boarding Osaka City's boat.
P&G Max Factor Japan - The Success Behind SK-II and Why Diversity Grows Business
2008-10-27: For the October Leadership Series at the Hilton Osaka, ACCJ Kansai Women in Business Committee Chair, Mari Nogami, spoke about her role in managing more than 1,800 employees as President of P&G Max Factor Japan. Leading up to her current role in July of 2006 as the first female President of P&G Max Factor Japan, Ms. Nogami stressed that especially among Fortune 500 companies, those with more diversity and with female board representation time and time again outperform those with less diversity and no female board members.
Mari Nogami, President of P&G Max Factor Japan and chair of the ACCJ Kansai Women in Business Committee, illustrates a point to the audience during the Q&A session at the Hilton Osaka.
2008 Walk-A-Thon
2008-10-18: Once again blessed with crystal clear skies, over 2,000 people came out to Meriken Park in Kobe for the 3rd Annual ACCJ Kansai Walk-A-Thon.
U.S. Consul General Edward Dong, Hyogo Prefecture Governor Toshizo Ido, and ACCJ President Allan Smith were among the VIPs who gave speeches during the opening ceremony to kickoff the day's festivities. With booths showcasing food from around the world and stage performances featuring Universal Studios Japan, Dance Collection by Megumi Kurihara, and a host of other acts, there were plenty of activities to keep everyone occupied.
The ACCJ Kansai Chapter Walk-A-Thon Organizing Committee is especially thankful to the event's Platinum Sponsors - P&G Japan, GE Japan, Eli Lilly Japan, and Universal Studios Japan - for their continuous support and generous contributions. The committee is also grateful to all sponsors, vendors, entertainers and volunteers who contributed time, donations, energy and effort to make the day a terrific success.
Official ACCJ Kansai Walk-A-Thon Website: http://www.accjwalkathon.org.
VIPs gather around the sake barrels for the kagami biraki during the opening ceremony at the 2008 Walk-A-Thon.
Many of the event organizers and volunteers gather for a group photo opportunity prior to starting the walk at Meriken Park in Kobe.
A group of young dancers pose for a picture before showtime.
A CSR Evening with the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan
2008-10-17: With a good representation of the Tokyo-based Board of Governor (BOG) members in town, the ACCJ Kansai Chapter held its CSR-related evening reception on the eve of the Walk-A-Thon charity event for the second consecutive year.
ACCJ Vice President Michael Bobrove (second from right), shares a laugh with the U.S. Consul General Edward Dong (left), Hyogo Prefecture Vice Governor Tomio Saito (second from left), and Kobe City Mayor Tatsuo Yada during his opening remarks at the Crowne Plaza Kobe.
Erica Kitamura, a 12th grade student at Canadian Academy, gives a few remarks after being recognized for designing the 2008 Walk-A-Thon logo at the Crowne Plaza Kobe.
An intricate ice sculpture featuring the ACCJ logo was created by the staff at the Crowne Plaza Kobe to set the tone for the evening.
Held at the luxurious Crowne Plaza Kobe on the 35th floor overlooking the city of Kobe, the evening had high profile representatives from various city and prefecture governments to celebrate the CSR activities of the ACCJ in the Kansai region.
An Inside Look At Sony
2008-09-30: For the September Leadership Series, the ACCJ Kansai Chapter welcomed Kansai native Masaru Miyamoto to share his insight working for one of the most famous electronics companies in the world. Relying on his 29 years of experience inside Sony, Mr. Miyamoto explained the uniqueness of Sony's leadership style and also what lies ahead for consumers with regards to future products being developed by the company.
Masaru Miyamoto, General Manager, Sony West Japan, discusses Sony's brand strategy and its continued investment in the company's employees at the Garden City Club Osaka (GCCO).
2008 Fall Meishi Exchange
2008-09-18: High in the sky from the 35th floor of the Swissotel Nankai Osaka, ACCJ members and guests gathered for the 2008 Fall Meishi Exchange, which was co-sponsored by the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI).
A special thank you to Yellowtail for being the wine sponsor of the evening, to International Solutions Group (ISG) for donating a lovely BBQ set, and to the Swissotel Nankai Osaka for providing excellent service and quality in making the meishi exchange event a very memorable one.
Handling duties as the event's emcees, Samuel Yohannes and Chris Christophers of the Living in Kansai Committee take a moment to pose for the camera during the 2008 Fall Meishi Exchange.
Drinking Yellowtail wine at the 2008 Fall Meishi Exchange, Kazuhiro Kobayashi, Kenji Yasuda, Kazuko Kamado, and Darren Morrish pose for a snapshot.
Development into a Biomedical Metropolis: Experiences from the BioClusters of Kobe and Osaka
2008-09-16: Highlighting the strengths of the Kobe BioCluster centered on Port Island and the Osaka BioCluster in Senri, Gregory Rall of the Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation (FBRI) spoke very frankly on the recent advances made in biomedical research, Kansai's efforts toward achieving a regional supercluster, and his thoughts on what lies in store for the industry moving forward.
Gregory Rall, International Collaboration Coordinator for the Foundation for Biomedical Research and Innovation (FBRI), illustrates a point to the audience at the Osaka Securities Exchange Building.
Kansai Leadership Welcomes New U.S. Consul General
2008-09-12: In welcoming the new U.S. Consul General Edward Dong to his post, ACCJ Vice President Michael Bobrove and ACCJ Governor Jiri Mestecky sat down with Consul General Dong and newly commissioned Political and Economic Affairs Consul David Tulloch. After being updated on the Chamber and its activities in Kansai, Consul General Dong expressed his interest to continue the Consulate's supportive relationship with the Kansai Chapter.
(left to right) Political and Economics Affairs Consul David Tulloch, U.S. Consul General Edward Dong, ACCJ Governor Jiri Mestecky, ACCJ Vice President Michael Bobrove, and Director of the Kansai Chapter office Keizo Yamada pose for a picture in front of the U.S. Consulate in Osaka.
How Trek Bicycle Corporation is attempting to solve some of the world's biggest problems
2008-08-26: Since opening the Trek Flagship Store Kobe in Suma in July 2007 and with the grand opening of the Roppongi Hills store scheduled for next week, Philip McGlade has been busy solidifying Trek's presence in the Japanese market.
Philip McGlade, Director of Asian Business, Trek Japan Corporation, discusses what Trek believes in at the Trek Store Kobe Rokko.
Attacking such issues as obesity, traffic congestion, and pollution, Mr. McGlade said that the severity of these issues could be greatly reduced if people rode bicycles. Mr. McGlade also believes that it is imperative for local and regional politicians to ride bicycles themselves to spread the word about the benefits associated with bicycle riding.
Summer Bash at the Crowne Plaza Kobe
2008-08-22: High above the Kobe skyline on the 35th floor of the Crowne Plaza Kobe, ACCJ members and guests gathered for a summer bash like none other. With a smorgasbord of sumptuous food served by the Grand Chef, Mr. Kobayashi, and free flowing drinks, members and guests mingled in an exquisite atmosphere symbolic of the Crowne Plaza Kobe.
ACCJ Kansai Business Programs Committee Vice-Chair, Pabel Delgado, poses with Yumi Nozaki during the Summer Bash on the 35th floor of the Crowne Plaza Kobe.
The Burgeoning Sake Business of Japan
2008-07-10: Hailing from the legendary Nada area sake brewing company, Hakutaka, Mr. Akira Sawada held a taste-testing session with three different kinds of sake to challenge everyone's taste buds following his speech about recent trends in the sake industry. Mr. Sawada also provided a sake barrel filled with sake for the traditional "kagami biraki" to kickoff the networking portion of the evening at the Garden City Club Osaka.
Akira Sawada, Vice President & COO of Hakutaka Company, poses for the camera during his presentation at the Garden City Club Osaka.
Omron: A View From Within
2008-07-03: On assignment at Omron Healthcare's headquarters in Kyoto from its European office for the past 18 months, Adrian Gee-Turner has experienced first-hand what it's like to be the first non-Japanese manager working for Omron Healthcare.
Adrian Gee-Turner, Manager, Omron Healthcare, demonstrates a point to the audience during his talk at the Hilton Osaka.
During his talk, Mr. Gee-Turner discussed the management decision-making process and the planning process at Omron Healthcare, which became a spin-off of Omron Corporation in July 2003. Highlighting the product planning process, Mr. Gee-Turner stated that it takes three years from start to finish for a product's existence to be realized.
Michael Bobrove, ACCJ Vice President - Kansai, receives Certificate of Appreciation
2008-06-30: Michael Bobrove, Vice President - Kansai, received a Certificate of Appreciation from Mr. Takashi Kugai, Director-General of the Kansai Bureau, Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry. The award was in recognition of Mr. Bobrove's considerable contributions toward promoting foreign investment and introducing foreign corporations to the Kansai region.
Drilling through the concrete ceiling: a personal perspective on challenges facing senior female executives in Japan
2008-06-10: As the June Leadership Series speaker, KVH CEO and President, Miyuki Suzuki discussed how even with the approval of recent favorable legislation, ambitious Japanese women still face a formidable "concrete ceiling" on their paths up the career ladder.
Miyuki Suzuki, President & CEO of KVH, illustrates a point to the audience at the P&G Japan headquarters in Rokko Island, Kobe.
Ms. Suzuki has had an extensive career in the telecommunications and media industries while serving at various posts in Reuters, Japan Telecom, and LexisNexis in Tokyo, Singapore, Hong Kong, New Zealand, London, Bahrain and Toronto.
"Hot Issues in Japanese Public Insurance & Employment Law"
2008-06-03: In addition to breaking down the McDonald's ruling involving unpaid overtime work that was handed down by the Tokyo District Court in January, Aki Tanaka spoke at length about new employment laws that were enacted earlier this year.
Aki Tanaka, Attorney at Kitahama Partners, highlights the basic rules of overtime work for ACCJ members and guests at the Garden City Club Osaka.
Yoshihiko Ono, Social Insurance and Labor Relations Administrative Attorney at Yoshihiko Ono International Labor Consulting, discusses worker's compensation.
Covering the pension systems of the U.S. and Japan, Yoshihiko Ono explained how one could be eligible to apply for the benefits associated with each system. Mr. Ono also shared information regarding recent changes in the law that eliminates paying social security into multiple countries' schemes.
"Uncovering Bio Billions in Japan"
2008-05-26: Hailing from the UK, Dr. Claude Kaplan, who has an extensive background in helping universities, government research institutes, multinationals, and SMEs exploit their intellectual property, spoke to the ACCJ Kansai Chapter at length about how one goes about evaluating the technologies being developed in Japan's publicly-funded research institutions.
Dr. Claude Kaplan, Senior Consultant and Director for IP Pragmatics, demonstrates a point to the audience at the Osaka Securities Exchange Building.
Regarding patents, Dr. Kaplan said that of those that do not fail, 25% will be licensed, 50% will generate revenue, and less than 25%, which equates to 3 out of every 100 filed, will generate more than $100,000 in licensed revenue.
2008 Spring Meishi Exchange
2008-05-22: The newest hotel to join the Kansai Chapter, Ramada Osaka, was the site of the 2008 Spring Meishi Exchange sponsored by the ACCJ Kansai Chapter and supported by the Osaka Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) and the Japan-America Society of Osaka (JASO).
With over 140 business professionals in attendance, the stage was set for the Kansai Chapter to shine as opening remarks included introductions by the Kansai Chapter leadership, recognition of Erica Kitamura, winner of the Walk-A-Thon logo competition for the second straight year, and a toast conducted by Yutaka Ueda of Osaka Prefecture.
The 2008 Spring Meishi Exchange was a multi-cultural affair.
To cap off a festive evening, several lucky participants were able to go home with some attractive prizes courtesy of the Ramada Osaka.
1300 Years in the Making: The Nara Revolution
2008-05-15: As the May Leadership Series featured speaker, Nara Governor Shogo Arai talked about not only the valuable experience he gained from being a student at Syracuse University but also his time spent in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Transportation, and the Japan Coast Guard before becoming governor last year.
Shogo Arai, Governor of Nara Prefecture, shares a laugh with the ACCJ Kansai Chapter at the Ramada Osaka.
With Nara Prefecture celebrating its 1,300th anniversary in 2010, Governor Arai spoke at length about what is in store to commemorate the birth of Japan's ancient capital city.
Managing the Media in a Crisis
2008-04-24: In a very interactive session on "How to handle the media in a crisis 101," David Wagner challenged the members by introducing role-play situations that made participants confront the media in times of distress.
David Wagner, Director, Communications Training Group, Gavin Anderson Japan, awaits a question from the audience at the Ramada Osaka Hotel.
Definitely an eye-opening experience, Mr. Wagner advised the members about one's posture, mannerisms, voice tone, and response time among a host of other tricks of the trade to make one's experience at the mercy of the media as stress-free as possible.
USS Chafee
2008-04-14: Thanks in part to the U.S. Consulate General Osaka-Kobe, a limited number of ACCJ members were able to experience a VIP tour of the USS Chafee, an Arleigh Burke Class Aegis Destroyer in the U.S. Navy fleet, which stopped by Osaka Port for a few days. The USS Chafee is named after former Rhode Island Governor and Secretary of the Navy, John Lester Hubbard Chafee.
ACCJ members and staff pose for a group picture in front of the USS Chafee.
The USS Chafee, an Arleigh Burke Class Aegis Destroyer in the U.S. Navy, docked at Osaka port.
USS Chafee Statistics:
Overall Length: 509 Feet
Beam: 66 Feet
Top Speed: 30+ Knots
Displacement: 9,217 Tons (Full Load)
Crew: 348
Mother Port: Hawaii
ACCJ Kansai Chapter to Invite Charities in Kansai to Apply for Contributions: Proceeds Raised at the 2nd Charity Walkathon to be Donated
2008-04-02: The American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ) Kansai Chapter announced today that it will donate the proceeds raised at its 2nd Charity Walkathon for "Improving the Environment for Working Women in Japan," held on October 20, 2007, to worthy charitable organizations which support working women in the Kansai area. The ACCJ Kansai Chapter is now accepting applications (English, Japanese) from non-profit organizations.
Deal Making in East Asia: The Past, Present, and Future
2008-03-26: In town from the U.S., Matthew Krebs of Life Science Analytics spoke openly to the ACCJ about not only the Japanese market, but also recent developments in the emerging markets of China, Korea, and India in the area of biotechnology.
Matthew Krebs, Account Manager of Life Science Analytics, is on the receiving end of a question during his presentation at the Osaka Securities Exchange Building.
Transforming a Traditional Japanese Insurance Company and Breaking Stereotypes
2008-03-18: As the March Leadership Series featured speaker, ACCJ Kansai member Bijan Khosrowshahi of Fuji Fire and Marine Insurance, explained how his ability to lead brought him to be the first and only non-Japanese CEO of a publicly traded insurance company in Japan. Since assuming the helm of Fuji Fire and Marine in 2004, he has led the company to achieve the highest return on equity (ROE) in the insurance sector while being rated A- by both international and domestic rating agencies.
Bijan Khosrowshahi, President and CEO of Fuji Fire & Marine Insurance Company Limited.
Presentation Zen: How to Design and Deliver Great Presentations in Today's World
2008-02-20: Following up on his earlier popular presentations for the ACCJ in 2004, 2005, and 2006 in Kobe, Osaka, and Tokyo, presentation designer and internationally acclaimed communications consultant Garr Reynolds shared his experience and views on presentation design and delivery. The full capacity audience at P&G's Auditorium was thoroughly delighted by Garr's know-your-subject and keep-it-simple approach.
Garr Reynolds in the midst of another great presentation.
Welcoming the New Mayor of Osaka
2008-02-12: In welcoming the newly elected Mayor of Osaka to his post, ACCJ Vice President Michael Bobrove sat down with Mayor Hiramatsu at the Mayor's Mansion to discuss the 2008 Walk-A-Thon in addition to a host of other activities that the Kansai Chapter is planning for the coming year. In response, Mayor Hiramatsu expressed his interest to continue the city's supportive relationship with the Kansai Chapter in the years to come.
ACCJ Vice President and Kansai Chapter Head, Michael Bobrove (left) with recently elected Mayor of Osaka, Kunio Hiramatsu (right).
P&G Strategies and Leadership for Sustainable Success
2008-02-06: To kickoff the 2008 Leadership Series, Procter & Gamble Japan Chairman and Governor of ACCJ Kansai Ravi Chaturvedi spoke candidly about how to achieve not only success for one's corporation but also more importantly "sustainable" success that will lead to the future growth of the company.
Speaking to a packed house at the Garden City Club Osaka, Ravi Chaturvedi expounds on the principles that have made Procter & Gamble one of the leading consumer goods companies for the past 170 years.
Business Ethics from a Legal Perspective
2008-01-23: With the large number of corporate scandals in recent years, such as Enron, Worldcom, Livedoor and others, ACCJ Kansai Business Programs Committee Chair, Jiri Mestecky highlighted the legal and ethical obligations owed by directors and officers to their corporations and shareholders. Introducing several theories, "contracts theory," "entity theory," and "nexus of contracts theory," Mr. Mestecky gave the audience lots to consider when dealing with in-house policies.
Registered Foreign Attorney and Partner of Kitahama Partners, Jiri Mestecky proves a point during his talk on fiduciary duty and corporate ethics at the Osaka Securities Exchange Building.
ACCJ Kansai Shinnengoreikai Welcomes the Year of the Rat
2008-01-17: The ACCJ Kansai Chapter celebrated the "Year of the Rat" with its annual Shinnengoreikai at the Garden City Club Osaka in Umeda. ACCJ Vice President Michael Bobrove provided a look back at 2007 and a look forward to 2008 in his state of the chapter address. In a symbolic ceremony, Kazumichi Machino, Managing Director of the Office of Urban Revitalization and Promotion of Osaka City, the 2007 Walk-A-Thon host city, passed the Walk-A-Thon trophy to Kyoji Ueda, Executive Director of the International Affairs Office of Kobe City, which was announced as the host city for the 2008 Walk-A-Thon.
U.S. Consulate General Daniel Russel (far left) along with ACCJ members and guests pause for a moment of silence for those who lost their lives 13 years ago in the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake.
Vice President of the ACCJ and Head of the Kansai Chapter, Michael Bobrove (left) presents a certificate of appreciation to former Living in Kansai Chair, Raymond Tait (right) for his contributions to the Chapter during his time as head of the committee from late 2005 to early 2007.
Thanks in part to our generous sponsors listed below, many of those in attendance went home as prizewinners!
Eva Air
Garr Reynolds
Garden City Club Osaka
Kobe Bay Sheraton Hotel & Towers
Northwest Airlines
Oakwood Apartments Shinjuku & Yotsuya
Wall Street Associates
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