Mercury CEO Takashi Akima Inspires Students at Komazawa University Lecture

On July 16, 2025, an engaging lecture on media and business took place at Komazawa University, featuring Takashi Akima, the CEO of Mercury Co., Ltd. This notable event was part of the university's Global Media Studies lecture series, led by Professor Hiroshi Yamaguchi. About 200 undergraduate students attended to deepen their understanding of corporate public relations and branding strategies.

The session was structured into two main parts. In the first half, Akima presented on how companies can effectively utilize social media for recruitment branding and transition from being an unknown entity to a recognized brand. He highlighted the role of younger employees in creating video content and shared successful examples of strategic PR activities. This helped students grasp the complexities involved in shaping public perception and the importance of communication in the business landscape.

In the latter part of the event, a panel discussion ensued featuring Akima, along with Ryohei Sudo, Executive Officer at Gion Co., Ltd., moderated by Mika Ozawa, CEO of Reiwa PR. This segment fostered a rich dialogue focusing on the importance of breaking misconceptions about the industry and how effective communication can bring about positive changes within organizations. Topics such as 'How can we break misconceptions about the industry and jobs?' and 'Does communication have the power to transform a company internally?' were explored in depth.

The overarching theme emphasized the need for transparency and authenticity in corporate messaging to connect with audiences genuinely. Students were encouraged to think critically about meaningful ways to convey lesser-known aspects of business and the unique stories behind brands.

Mercury's mission to enrich the lives of individuals through diverse human resources was a focal point of the presentation. The company aims to continually bridge the gap between society and individuals by fostering potential in everyone involved.

Looking ahead, Mercury plans to expand its collaborations with educational institutions, having already executed several seminars aimed at nurturing talent. This commitment reflects their vision of being a 'touchpoint for inspiring awe' while supporting the future of society through diverse human resource development.

In conclusion, the event provided valuable insights and real-world connections for students aspiring to pursue careers in public relations and communication. By interacting directly with industry leaders, students left with a richer understanding of the media landscape and the strategic role of corporate communications in today’s world. Akima’s engagement with students not only highlighted Mercury's efforts in education but also helped motivate the next generation of professionals in the field of media and corporate communication.