Iku Hirosaki
Hirosaki Yoshihisa
Director and COO ｜ Board Member and Chief Operating Officer
Iku began her career at Coursera in the United States as an Enterprise Marketing Associate, where she executed multi-channel campaigns and managed marketing operations. She then relocated to Singapore and joined MediaMath, overseeing field marketing and marketing operations for the JAPAC region. Currently at 01GROWTH, she provides strategic consulting to clients both domestically and internationally. Her professional experience across the U.S., Singapore, and Japan has shaped her global perspective and expertise in navigating diverse markets. She is also the author of “マーケティングオペレーション（MOps）の教科書” (MarkeZine BOOKS) and “レベニューオペレーション（RevOps）の教科書 部門間のデータ連携を図り収益を最大化する米国発の新常識” (MarkeZine BOOKS), and holds a Master’s degree in International Marketing.
Expertise: Marketing Operations, Digital marketing strategy development, International Marketing
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Case Studies: How Foreign Companies Succeeded (or Failed) in Japan
April 7, 2025
Japan’s B2B market offers significant opportunities for companies willing to adapt to its unique business culture and regulatory landscape. By learning from others, businesses can build lasting partnerships and achieve sustainable growth in this dynamic market.
State of Data Privacy Regulations for Marketing Use in Japan
April 7, 2025
Japan’s data privacy regulations under APPI impact B2B marketing, particularly in cross-border data transfers and consent requirements. While Japanese consumers value convenience, compliance can be a strategic advantage for global businesses. This article explores how marketers can balance innovation with trust to succeed in Japan.
Japan vs. Other APAC Markets: Where Should You Expand First?
April 7, 2025
Japan offers stability and high-value contracts, while other APAC markets provide faster growth and lower entry barriers. For B2B companies, the choice depends on industry needs, sales cycles, and localization ability.
Investment in Startups and Innovation Hubs: How Foreign B2B Startups Can Succeed in Japan
March 12, 2025
Japan’s startup ecosystem is evolving, with $5.4B invested in 2023, driven by CVCs and government initiatives. For foreign B2B companies, opportunities lie in AI, SaaS, and automation, but success requires long-term trust-building. Learn how to navigate Japan’s unique innovation landscape.
State of AI in Japan
March 6, 2025
AI adoption in Japan remains cautious, with enterprises prioritizing human decision-making over automation. Legacy IT systems and data challenges slow progress, yet government investments and strategic opportunities are emerging. Foreign companies that adapt to Japan’s unique AI landscape can gain a competitive edge.
Challenges in Localizing Global Marketing Strategies for Japan
March 6, 2025
Expanding into Japan’s B2B market requires more than translation—it demands cultural adaptation. Success hinges on relationship-building, indirect communication, and a long-term approach. Companies that align with Japan’s business values can achieve sustainable growth.
Understanding Japanese Business Communication: A Key to Success
February 28, 2025
Success in Japan hinges on understanding indirect communication, hierarchy, and relationship-building. Patience and consensus drive decision-making, while regular in-person visits foster trust. Adapting to these nuances ensures lasting business success.
Why ABM Struggles in Japan—and How to Get It Right
February 24, 2025
ABM in Japan isn’t plug-and-play. Data gaps, sales-led structures, and tech mismatches make execution complex. Success lies in localization—aligning with Japan’s unique business culture.
The Rise of Marketing Operations in Japan
February 12, 2025
Once overlooked, marketing operations is now gaining traction in Japan as companies embrace digital tools and data-driven strategies. With dedicated teams optimizing MarTech and improving efficiency, MOps is becoming essential for business growth.
Cracking the Code: How SaaS Companies Can Succeed in Japan’s Unique Market
February 5, 2025
Why do global SaaS giants struggle in Japan despite their success elsewhere? From extensive customization to fragmented IT environments and slow AI adoption, Japan’s SaaS market requires a different approach. This article explores key challenges and how vendors can align with local business practices to drive success.
