We’re excited to announce the first DN Master Class, an invitation-only event designed to provide practical business insights in an exclusive and intimate setting. Whether you’re new to Japan or a seasoned professional, building trust with Japan Inc. remains one of the most challenging yet essential aspects of leadership. Our inaugural session will feature DN member Ishigaki Yumesaku, Executive Director at MUMSS, who will explore how to foster trust with Japanese stakeholders.

Mastering the Art of Trust

Master Classes focus on actionable business strategies introduced by an experienced “Master” in a private, confidential setting with 5-9 CEOs. These sessions include a 20-25 minute opening commentary followed by a dynamic, interactive discussion over a curated meal in a private dining space. These events are designed for CEOs to exchange their most valuable lessons, sharing both triumphs and missteps with their peers.

Ishigaki-san brings decades of experience navigating the complexities of Japanese corporate culture. His insights will cover the nuances of how Japanese professionals network, who they trust, and how trust can be built—or lost. This session is invaluable for any leader seeking to deepen their relationships with key stakeholders in Japan and develop the kind of alliances that are critical during moments of crisis or transformation.

The Unique Challenges of Trust in Japan

For foreign executives in Japan, even those with years of experience, building trust can feel like an uphill battle. Japanese professionals often limit trust to small, tight-knit networks, and even among themselves, there’s a cautious approach to forming deeper relationships. Unlike other cultures that foster connections through dinner parties or family socializing, Japan keeps home and work separate, making it more time-consuming to cultivate meaningful professional relationships.

Many foreign CEOs may retreat to the comfort of familiar expat networks like the Tokyo American Club, but this approach often limits long-term success. Trust is not just a “nice-to-have” in Japan—it can be a lifeline in times of crisis. A strong network of trusted allies can make the difference between survival and failure for your business and career.

Insights from Experience: A Case Study in Trust

Ishigaki-san’s own experience is a testament to the power of trust in business. As an executive at one of Japan’s most traditional institutions, he has also worked internationally and currently oversees key operations of a landmark joint venture between Mitsubishi UFJ and Morgan Stanley. His unique perspective offers a rare glimpse into how trust is cultivated across cultural lines.

A prime example of this is the $9 billion equity investment Mitsubishi UFJ made in Morgan Stanley during the 2008 financial crisis, a move that many credit with saving the U.S. institution from collapse. This monumental act of trust didn’t happen overnight—it was the result of years of relationship-building, mutual respect, and shared vision. Ishigaki-san will explore what Morgan Stanley did right to earn such trust and the critical role CEOs play in fostering these relationships.