#Japan #Tokyo #AI Strategy #INCLUSIVE Holdings #Ryota Kakukura

INCLUSIVE Holdings Creates New Role of Chief AI Officer

INCLUSIVE Holdings, based in Minato, Tokyo, has made a significant addition to its leadership team with the appointment of Ryota Kakukura as the Chief AI Officer (CAIO). This decision was made during the company’s 19th Annual General Meeting held on June 29, 2026, where Kakukura was elected as a board director.

Background of CAIO Position

As INCLUSIVE Holdings looks to transition into a holding company structure by October 2025, the focus is shifting from media to community revitalization. To achieve sustainable growth in a climate of uncertainty, leveraging advanced technologies like AI for data analysis, operational efficiency, and improved decision-making has become vital. The company's subsidiaries, such as Shimogamo Saryo, are already utilizing AI data analysis to boost their e-commerce efforts. In the space sector, they offer agricultural administration support services called 'Field DX', which utilize satellite data.

Kakukura brings extensive experience in internet services and data governance to the role and has been instrumental in strengthening the management system at subsidiary companies. His appointment as CAIO is a strategic move to ensure that the executive team leads and unifies AI and data strategies across all business units, aiming to further enhance corporate value.

Key Responsibilities of the CAIO

In his new role, Kakukura will focus on several critical areas:

• - Developing and Promoting an AI Strategy: Create a comprehensive AI strategy and roadmap for the group.
• - Optimizing AI Utilization Across Business Areas: Collaborate with various business units to integrate and enhance AI initiatives.
• - Establishing AI Governance: Build a framework for governance, ethical guidelines, and security management.
• - Nurturing Next-Gen Digital Talent: Aggregate knowledge required for AI application and contribute to the development of digital and management talent.

About Ryota Kakukura

Kakukura has held key positions at prominent IT firms such as CyberAgent and Mercari, focusing on corporate planning and internal audits. He joined INCLUSIVE Holdings in May 2024 and played a crucial role in advancing the e-commerce business and management structure at Shimogamo Saryo. His knowledge will now guide the group-wide AI strategy and facilitate AI Transformation across different operations.

Statements from Key Leaders

Kakukura expressed enthusiasm about his new role, stating, "At Shimogamo Saryo, I have taken on the challenge of scaling a traditional brand through technology. This experience has illuminated the potential for businesses to evolve at unprecedented speeds and quality with technology. As CAIO, I intend to channel this realization into the collective strength of the group."

President Miki Kimura also shared her confidence in Kakukura’s appointment, emphasizing that AI's ability to transform society makes it crucial for sustainable growth. She believes Kakukura’s exceptional expertise and leadership will accelerate the AI strategy and cultivate remarkable customer experiences and new business values. She stressed the importance of ethical implementation of AI across the company, hoping to seize upcoming growth opportunities together.

About INCLUSIVE Holdings

For further information, visit INCLUSIVE Holdings. INCLUSIVE Holdings is committed to supporting sustainable growth for local communities and industries through its efforts in value creation and automation. As a holding company responsible for overall strategy, management, and investment, it engages in various sectors including digital marketing and consulting, food-related services, and space-related initiatives to address social issues effectively.