Real Assets, Real People

What were you doing before you started your career in real estate/infrastructure?

Prior to joining MC Digital Realty from 2019 to 2022, I played a key role in corporate planning at Mitsubishi Corporation's Tokyo headquarters. Reporting directly to the company's president, I contributed to managing company-wide investment portfolios worth a $100 billion. Subsequently, I served as the Head of Strategy Planning, Urban Development Division, and General Manager of Real Estate Business Department at Mitsubishi. I took an initiative to rebalance and optimize global real estate investment portfolios valued at $4 billion, while assuming the role of a board director for both US and Japan-based subsidiaries.

Prior to that, as the President of MC Aviation Partners Americas in Irvine, CA, I took executive leadership and oversaw all company-related matters.

What are the key opportunities that you see in the current real assets investment landscape?

In the dynamic landscape of real asset investment, particularly within the datacenter industry where I have been engaged, we stand at the edge of transformative opportunities that are set to shape the future. The convergence of cutting-edge AI advances promises a surge in demand, propelling us into an era where data-driven solutions reign supreme.　

While opportunities abound globally, our focus is on the Japanese market, which holds the most promising potential within the APAC. Its progressive market dynamics make it a strategic imperative to establish a firm foothold within this landscape.

Additionally, the focal point on renewable energy transition stands as a testament to our social responsibility. The integration of sustainable practices not only aligns with the global environmental responsibility but also cements resilience and longevity in our investments.

Recent opportunities we are pursuing are in line with these multifaceted elements, which urge us to forge a path toward enduring success.

From a leader's perspective, how can companies navigate and thrive in an increasingly challenging business environment?

We should adopt a strategic approach. This involves not only making selective investments and seizing opportunistic chances but also adhering to established investment principles and seeking attractive terms to maximize returns on investment. In highly competitive sectors like the data center industry, land banking presents notable challenges. However, by embracing an innovative approach and leveraging in-house expertise, as well as industry relationships and networks, companies can explore new opportunities to scale up and expand their current domains. By continuously differentiating themselves, companies can position themselves for success and achieve a competitive edge in the market.

Can you share a notable success story or achievement in your journey as a leader?

One aspect that I always hold dear is the invaluable support my ex-colleagues provided during the process of liquidating a company and managing job transfers and terminations in the past days. Establishing trust and fostering mutual respect among the teams involved played a crucial role in successfully navigating this challenging task. By prioritizing open communication and maintaining transparency through the disclosure of relevant information, we were able to effectively handle the difficult situation together. One of my greatest assets is the enduring friendships I have maintained with my ex-colleagues even after the hard times.