#Japan #Tokyo #iYell #Mitsuhiro Kubota #Japan Business Model

Mitsuhiro Kubota Assumes Leadership at the Japan Business Model Association

Mitsuhiro Kubota, the CEO of iYell Co., Ltd., recently made headlines with his new appointment as the Executive Secretary of the Japan Business Model Association (JBMA). Established to connect business practices with academic insights, this non-profit organization is based in Bunkyo, Tokyo. Kubota's leadership is anticipated to drive transformative activities that combine theoretical knowledge and practical business applications, stimulating innovation and sustainable growth in Japan.

Background of the Appointment

Kubota has a vision for the JBMA that emphasizes the necessity of integrating business industry insights with academic research. His goal is to harness the collective intelligence of both sectors to foster groundbreaking changes in the business landscape. By providing practical frameworks and actionable strategies derived from rigorous research, the JBMA aims to contribute significantly to Japan’s long-term economic stability and foster a culture of innovation across various industries.

Career Path of Mitsuhiro Kubota

Kubota's professional journey began in 2007 when he joined SBI Holdings. During his tenure, he quickly rose to become the youngest executive officer at SBI Mortgage, now known as SBI Arahii Co., Ltd. In this role, he oversaw critical business divisions dealing with housing loans. In 2016, he founded iYell, a company dedicated to revolutionizing the housing industry through cloud-based support systems such as the “iYell Dandori”. Under his leadership, iYell has flourished, offering a vast range of services targeting housing companies, financial institutions, and end-users.

As of June 2025, iYell has successfully raised 9.85 billion yen, employs 280 staff members across eight subsidiaries, and is recognized for its cultural contributions, receiving multiple awards, including the White Company Award. Kubota aims to drive the digital transformation of an otherwise analog industry.

Kubota’s Vision for the JBMA

In a recent statement, Kubota expressed his honor and excitement in assuming this pivotal role within the Japan Business Model Association. He emphasized the importance of adaptability in today’s dynamic environment where outdated success formulas can no longer assure future victories. By linking real-world business challenges with academic research, he believes new business opportunities will emerge, contributing to a robust foundation for sustained innovation.

This philosophy aligns perfectly with the JBMA’s mission of enhancing the synergy between businesses and academia, fostering an ecosystem where innovation can thrive amid changing economic landscapes.

About the Japan Business Model Association

The Japan Business Model Association was established on October 1, 2000. The organization, headed by President Kenji Tanaka, operates from the University of Tokyo, where it engages in research and initiatives aimed at advancing business model methodologies. Its work seeks to empower businesses by providing valuable insights gathered through academic study, effectively bridging the gap between theory and application. For more information, visit their official website.

iYell Co., Ltd. at a Glance

Founded on May 12, 2016, iYell Co., Ltd. has grown rapidly under Kubota’s guidance, establishing itself as a key player in the housing support services sector. The company’s innovative platforms and dedication to bridging gaps within the housing industry highlight its commitment to making an impact in this vital sector. You can find out more about their services via the official corporate site and their recruitment page. Their commitment to fostering a dynamic corporate culture and innovation continues to attract talent and accolades alike.

As Kubota embarks on this new chapter with the JBMA, his strategies and vision promise to reshape how businesses innovate and grow in harmony with academic research, paving the path towards a more vibrant and sustainable economy for Japan.