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Satoru Watanabe Appointed as President of D5 Consulting

On September 26, 2025, Satoru Watanabe was appointed as the President of D5 Consulting, a Tokyo-based firm specializing in data science and consulting. Previously, he held a senior position at PwC Consulting and has served as a part-time lecturer at Sophia University’s Graduate School of Data Science. With rich experience in strategic execution and talent development, Watanabe's appointment marks a pivotal shift for the company as it transitions into an AI-Transformation Company.

Watanabe replaces Takashi Furumoto, who will remain with the company as a representative director to support the new leadership. Watanabe’s philosophy emphasizes action over commentary, promoting effective change through the collaboration of human intelligence and artificial intelligence (AI).

Meeting Transformation Challenges Head-On

The challenges of transformation are vast, and many businesses have encountered obstacles in effectively implementing strategic recommendations and ambitious digital transformation (DX) plans. Watanabe asserts that practical implementation is key; without it, lofty ideals remain unrealized.

Today’s AI capabilities allow for more rapid and precise planning than ever before, placing an increased emphasis on execution. D5 Consulting (D5C) aims to treat AI not merely as a technological tool, but as a collaborative partner in the human effort, fully committed to achieving transformation alongside its clients.

A Practical Approach to Change: Partnering with Clients

D5C’s approach transcends merely delivering analysis reports. The company takes a deep dive into clients' business challenges, supporting them at every stage from data infrastructure setup to AI model implementation and generating results on the ground. This comprehensive support embodies their commitment to achieving mutual success with clients.

Leveraging expertise in “data science and consulting,” D5C has implemented various initiatives that drive measurable business outcomes. These include transitioning data analysis frameworks to the cloud and utilizing machine learning to predict customer churn, resulting in improved revenues. D5C is now expanding its capabilities by integrating AI into its own operations, establishing a Gemini 2.5 Pro environment for all employees, and developing internal AI agents to assist consultants.

Satoru Watanabe’s Vision for D5C

In his recent statement, Watanabe shared: "As I step into the role of President, D5C's next big challenge is to evolve into an AIX (AI-Transformation) Company. With AI as the driving force for transformation, we aim to achieve tangible results deeply rooted in real business contexts, going beyond mere analysis and commentary. Our commitment to integrating analytics into societal contributions is a mission I am eager to elevate to a new level."

A Rich Background in Business Strategy

Watanabe's journey began after graduating from university, where he worked in corporate finance for a leading bank, deepening his understanding of various industries. He later joined PwC Consulting and successfully led hundreds of strategic consulting projects, focusing on new business launches and growth strategies. In 2010, he established Shuhari Inc., combining consulting with training to offer unique corporate support services. He has also participated in various sectors, including agriculture and food service, aiming to solve social issues through business.

In July 2019, Watanabe played a key role in a publicly listed major education and welfare service company, leading digital transformations and integrating human capital management with sustainability initiatives. He now aims to focus on AI-driven change starting in 2024, bringing in new energy from the Gen Z workforce.

About D5 Consulting

Founded through a collaboration between KDDI and DataFour Seasons, D5 Consulting specializes in data science and consulting, driving business transformations through AI. It aims to be the most trusted partner for clients by guiding them through strategic development to implementation.

Location: 7F Kowa Hiroo Building, 5-2-32 Minami Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 106-0047, Japan
Website: D5 Consulting