Rehito “Ray” Hatoyama is one of Japan’s most globally experienced board directors and brand strategists. Currently serving as a board Chair of Pigeon, and as a director at Z Holdings, HUMAN MADE, and transcosmos, with prior board roles at Suntory, LINE, and DeNA, Ray is widely recognized for his many achievements across brands, global business and technology. Perhaps most notable, Ray is known for his leadership of the global branding of Hello Kitty, transforming it into one of the world’s most successful cross‑cultural brands.

Coming from a long lineage of national political and business leadership, Ray built his own reputation through decades of global operating experience, brand stewardship, and board judgment. In this session we will focus on what is imperative for boards to compete globally today – including the mindset shift, mental models, and the customer understanding – with lessons from some of his books and articles including:

• How Sanrio Turned Hello Kitty into a Global Brand

• The World’s Walls Aren’t High

• What People Who Succeed in Silicon Valley Study

• Direct Connections with Customers Generate Profit

Join this seminar to learn from a leader who has scaled global brands, advised CEOs across industries, and shaped how Japanese companies think about globalization, branding, and boardroom excellence. This session will strengthen your global perspective, elevate your boardroom commentary, and help you build the personal habits that define not only Silicon Valley but world‑class directors.