Highlights from the Talk Event Featuring Mercari Chairman Akira Koizumi: A Path Towards Career Growth in Local Areas

Event Report: A Night of Insight and Inspiration

On March 24, 2025, a special talk event took place at Shibuya Hikarie, co-hosted by Ryogen, led by CEO Ryoma Tada, and Venture for Japan, headed by Director Yosuke Komatsu. The highlight of the evening was a keynote lecture by Akira Koizumi, Chairman of Mercari and President of Kashima Antlers FC. The event aimed to provide university students interested in entrepreneurship and careers in regional areas with firsthand knowledge of business management and local revitalization.

The event saw a full capacity of 40 participants, indicating a strong interest among students eager to explore innovative career paths.

Keynote Highlights: "Local Areas Expand Career Potential"

In his engaging lecture, Koizumi reflected on his career and shared key strategies that fueled Mercari's rapid growth. He also discussed initiatives at Kashima Antlers FC related to community revitalization. His perspective that the growth of local businesses and the unique attributes of regional areas can drive innovation resonated deeply with the audience, serving as a valuable learning experience.

Interactive Q&A and Networking Opportunities

After the keynote, the Q&A session featured thought-provoking questions from participants. Queries ranged from the future role of local areas in career development to the possibilities within Japan's sports business. Koizumi responded thoughtfully, drawing from his extensive knowledge of the industry.

The networking segment that followed fostered lively exchanges. Attendees, alongside the speakers, engaged in discussions about potential career options, providing a unique platform for collaboration and relationship-building.

About Akira Koizumi

Koizumi graduated from Waseda University with a degree in commerce. He began his career at Daiwa Securities SMBC, where he supervised IPOs for leading internet firms like Mixi and DeNA. In 2006, he joined Mixi, becoming its Executive Officer and CFO, overseeing the corporate sector. After leaving in 2012, he supported various startups before joining Mercari in December 2013. He became a Director in March 2014, and was promoted to Chairman in September 2019. Furthermore, he has been the President of Kashima Antlers FC since August 2019.

For Companies Looking to Engage with Top Talent

Ryogen specializes in connecting high-caliber students, including those from the University of Tokyo, with companies seeking long-term interns. With no initial fees and an agent-based model, they facilitate a seamless hiring process. By harnessing the talent of exceptional young individuals, Ryogen significantly contributes to corporate growth. Companies can reach out via their website: Ryogen.

A Pathway to New Career Choices for Students

This event successfully provided a platform for numerous students to contemplate new career options that challenge conventional values. For those seeking to form substantial career frameworks through quality long-term internships, the service KUUT is recommended. KUUT is dedicated to offering practical, long-term internships that meet rigorous quantitative standards for high-class students. An official website featuring job listings is set to launch soon. More details can be found on their official Instagram: @kuut_highclass_internship1.

For those drawn to careers in regional areas with substantial responsibilities under executive leadership, Venture for Japan offers programs that present opportunities to build careers through challenges in startup and local businesses. More information is available on their website: Venture for Japan.

Both Ryogen and Venture for Japan continue to create opportunities for fostering the next generation of leaders. Thank you to all participants who attended this impactful event!