Posted by Marketing Team on Jun 26, 2025 12:00:00 AM Hitotsubashi University Business School Hosts First-Ever AMJ Paper Development Workshop
Posted by Marketing Team on Apr 28, 2025 12:00:00 AM Dean's Guest Speaker Series 2025 | Spotlighting the Impact of Knowledge Creation Theory in Practice
Posted by Emi Osono on Jan 6, 2025 12:00:00 AM Dean's New Year Message for 2025 New Year's Greetings from Hitotsubashi ICS!
Posted by Jody Ono on Dec 9, 2024 12:00:00 AM Conference on Competitiveness 2024 | Japan Shows Its Strengths
Posted by Marketing Team on Nov 29, 2024 12:00:00 AM Strengthening Global Business Education Through Collaboration - Highlights from the 13th BEST Alliance Symposium
Posted by Marketing Team on Sep 18, 2024 12:00:00 AM Hitotsubashi ICS Commencement 2024: Congratulations to our graduates!
Posted by Marketing Team on Sep 17, 2024 12:00:00 AM SMBC Group Research Fund Launched for ICS to Drive Sustainable Finance Studies Supporting innovative and impactful research Hitotsubashi University Business School, School of International Corporate Strategy (ICS) is pleased to announce the launch of a new research grant opportunity, the SMBC Research Fund, aimed at advancing studies in sustainable finance and related fields. This initiative will provide critical support to ICS faculty and DBA students pursuing impactful research. Background and Purpose The fund is tied to the upcoming endowed lecture, "SMBC Group Sustainable Finance," set to be delivered and managed by Prof. Kei-Ichiro Inaba in January 2025 (AY 2024-2025). With a total fund of 4.2 million yen, the SMBC Research Fund will finance research projects not only in the area of sustainable finance but across other disciplines that address sustainability challenges. Advancing Knowledge in Finance and Sustainability This grant reflects ICS's ongoing commitment to fostering research activities in the field of finance, with a particular emphasis on sustainability. It aims to encourage projects that deepen understanding of sustainable finance, helping researchers explore innovative solutions and approaches that address pressing environmental, social, and governance issues. Since this fund is a key part of our efforts in sustainable finance, it's essential that our messaging aligns with the broader Thought Leadership goals at ICS. This fund not only supports impactful research but also positions ICS as a leader in the conversation on sustainability. The ICS community recognizes that expanding knowledge in these areas is vital as financial business and investing are expected to be supportive to sustainable development goals. Application and Review Process The review committee for the fund consists of Dean Prof. Emi Osono, Prof. Erica Okada, and Prof. Kei-Ichiro Inaba. Applications will be accepted monthly, with a rolling deadline at the end of each month. Eligibility and Guidelines for DBA Students An important aspect of the fund is to welcome applications from young faculty members and DBA students. DBA students interested in applying must ensure that their ICS supervisors are part of the research group and serve as co-authors on the resulting papers. This requirement underscores the fund's commitment to quality mentorship and academic rigor. Publication Expectations and Impact Goals Grant recipients are expected to aim for high-impact dissemination of their findings. Specifically, researchers are encouraged to target publication in peer-reviewed journals ranked Level 2 or higher in the Academic Journal Guide. This standard reflects the fund's objective of contributing to the global academic community through quality research outputs that advance knowledge in sustainable finance and sustainability. Gratitude to SMBC Group for Their Generous Support The ICS community expresses its sincere gratitude to SMBC Group for their generous contribution and vision in establishing this fund. Their support not only enables vital research in sustainable finance but also empowers the next generation of scholars and professionals to drive meaningful change. The collaboration between SMBC Group and ICS is a testament to the importance of industry-academic partnerships in tackling global challenges. The launch of the SMBC Research Fund represents a significant opportunity for ICS faculty and students to engage in research that aligns with contemporary global challenges. The ICS community is excited about the potential breakthroughs that could arise from projects supported by this grant.
Posted by Marketing Team on Jun 7, 2024 12:00:00 AM Bai Xian Asia Institute Marks 10 Years of Building Bridges Across Cultures Hitotsubashi ICS Celebrates a Decade of Partnership and Collaboration with BXAI We are thrilled to share that Bai Xian Asia Institute (BXAI) is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year! Since its inception in 2014, BXAI has supported over 650 scholars through the Asian Future Leaders Scholarship Program (AFLSP), which provides scholarships for Asian students to study abroad in Asia and creates intercultural opportunities for young aspiring leaders to learn from and engage with one another. Hitotsubashi ICS, in collaboration with BXAI, fosters global-minded leaders through its mission to bridge Japan's rich cultural heritage with Asia's dynamic business landscape. This partnership embodies their vision of creating significant, sustainable societal impacts while nurturing diversity and inclusivity. BXAI was founded on the belief that cross-cultural education is the key to a harmonious world built on mutual understanding, respect, and equality. Through education programs that empower and inspire scholars in different Asian countries and regions, BXAI seeks to strengthen relationships between the people of Asia, foster partnerships between East Asian academic institutions, and promote peace, regional collaboration, and harmony in Asia and beyond. As of 2024, BXAI's network includes eight Partner Universities across five cities in East Asia, namely Hitotsubashi ICS, Kyoto University, Peking University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Tsinghua University, and Waseda University. A total of 10 cohorts of scholars from 25 Asian countries and regions have been supported by the AFLSP. "Bai Xian is a wonderful community with scholars from different countries and backgrounds. Every gathering and interaction with them is an unforgettable moment. The summer camp is also very memorable. Through about two weeks of joint activities, we get to know each other, discuss various topics about society, life, and the future. I am very grateful to the Bai Xian AFLSP program for broadening my horizons and connections while also bringing me great joy."- Zhuanxi "Johnson" Wang, MBA Class of 2022 "Education is a long-term investment," says BXAI CEO, Ms. Ronna Chao. "As we celebrate 10 years of building bridges across cultures, we look forward to forging ahead in our efforts to develop a new generation of leaders through intercultural exchange and learning, while cultivating a sense of community and mutual understanding amidst a changing global landscape." Hitotsubashi ICS is looking forward to further cooperation with BXAI to continue this mission of fostering global leaders and creating a profound impact on society. Together, we are excited about the future opportunities to collaborate and contribute to the advancement of education and intercultural understanding in Asia and beyond.
Posted by Marketing Team on Jun 7, 2024 12:00:00 AM ABEST21 International Re-accreditation Hitotsubashi ICS re-accredited by ABEST21 with a rating of "Excellent" We are delighted to share the exciting news that Hitotsubashi ICS has once again achieved re-accreditation from ABEST21 with an "Excellent" rating, marking the third consecutive time we have received this honor! Hitotsubashi ICS Dean Emi Osono acknowledged the school's re-accreditation noting that this demonstrated the high quality and innovativeness of Hitotsubashi's educational programs. "It is particularly pleasing to see that, in addition to being re-accredited for the 3rd consecutive time, ICS has been recognized for its world-class international exchange programs". This re-accreditation is not just a recognition of ICS's robust MBA degree program but also highlights the school's dedication to delivering premier global management education. ABEST21, also known as The Alliance on Business Education and Scholarship for Tomorrow, is a distinguished accreditation organization dedicated to professional graduate schools of business. Established in 2005 and officially recognized by the Japanese Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science, and Technology (MEXT) in 2007, ABEST21 has played a pivotal role in enhancing the standards of business education. The organization has accredited a multitude of institutions across Japan, the broader Asian region, and beyond, continually fostering high standards and promoting ongoing improvements in the realm of business education. To access the full accreditation review report, please check the next link: ABEST21-International-Accreditation-Review-Report-2024 .pdf 評価に関する情報:認証評価 | 評価に関する情報 | 法定公開情報 | 情報公開 | 大学案内 | 一橋大学 (hit-u.ac.jp)
Posted by Marketing Team on Jun 3, 2025 12:00:00 AM [Blogs] Learning Through Springs: A Follow-Up Visit to Tokai Spring's Factory Yu Matsuura and Dana Zhang, MBA students from the Class of 2024, reflect on their visit to Tokai Spring, a specialized spring manufacturer in Hyogo Prefecture. As part of their Japan Business and Economy course at Hitotsubashi ICS, they explored how strategy, craftsmanship, and culture intersect in Japanese SMEs. Through a factory tour, hands-on experience, and conversation with the company president, they gained fresh insights into the value of focus, trust, and “not competing” as a strategic choice.
Posted by Marketing Team on Feb 14, 2025 12:00:00 AM [Blogs] The Art of Knowledge Creation: Evolution in Business & Watchmaking Nico Moreno, an alumnus from the MBA Class of 2021, reflects on his transformative journey from founding a watch brand in the Philippines to pursuing an MBA at Hitotsubashi ICS. In his reflection, he shares how his search for deeper knowledge and perspective in watchmaking led him to Japan, where he encountered the SECI model of knowledge creation and the concept of 'Shokunin,' the spirit of the artisan. He discusses the challenges, insights, and motivations that shaped his decision to join the ICS program and how this experience helped guide the next chapter of his ongoing story.
Posted by Marketing Team on Sep 23, 2024 12:00:00 AM [Blogs] Hitotsubashi ICS MBA受験体験記 - My Application Experience Aki Fushima, a 2023 MBA graduate, reflects on her journey from initial motivation to securing a spot at her dream school, Hitotsubashi ICS. She shares insights into her application experience and what it took to achieve this milestone.
Posted by Marketing Team on Jul 20, 2024 12:00:00 AM [Blogs] A Transformative Journey: ESMT Berlin's MBA Students Visit Japan ESMT Berlin's MBA students recently embarked on a transformative journey to Japan, marking a significant academic and professional development milestone. This international field study was facilitated by ICS and designed to immerse students in the rich and diverse business environment of Japan.
Posted by Marketing Team on Jul 18, 2024 12:00:00 AM [Blogs] ICS DBiA: A Cultural Immersion Exploring Business in East Asia Aly Valdemoro, an ICS alumna from the MBA Class of 2022, shares her insights and experience about the course Doing Business in Asia (DBiA) 2023 for her kouhais (juniors). She was a recipient of the Young Leaders' Program.
Posted by Marketing Team on May 21, 2024 12:00:00 AM 【Blogs】Feeding the Future: A Self-Sustaining Business Model in Ghana for Social Welfare K.C. Wang and Qianyi Ye, two MBA Program students from the Class of 2022, share their immersive internship experience in this exclusive edition of Byline ICS. Hosted by Hitotsubashi ICS and the Ajinomoto Foundation, this internship program provided a platform for them to showcase how they effectively applied their MBA knowledge and professional expertise.
Posted by Marketing Team on Dec 4, 2023 12:00:00 AM [Blogs] Leading for Sustainabilty: Exploring the Effects of EU's CSRD Policy Pari joined the Hitotsubashi ICS MBA Class of 2022 as a Young Leaders Program (YLP) scholar, bringing with her an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit and a wealth of diverse industry experiences. Her passion for sustainability and her drive to make a positive impact on the world set her apart as an exceptional addition to the program.
Posted by Marketing Team on Nov 30, 2023 12:00:00 AM [Blogs] Bai Xian Summer Program 2023: Forging Life-long Connections Angela joined the ICS 2-year MBA program in 2022, bringing with her diverse industry experiences ranging from AI, high tech, life science, and semiconductor sectors. Drawing from her professional tenure mostly in Silicon Valley, she offers valuable insights into human capital practices and organization effectiveness. After earning her master’s degree in human resources management from Michigan State University, she joined Fortune 100 companies, honing hands-on skills and gaining invaluable field experiences.
Posted by Marketing Team on Sep 14, 2023 12:00:00 AM [Blogs] At the Forefront of Industry Transformation As a Teaching Assistant for the course, Kuo Jian Wong offers unique insights. A recent graduate of Hitotsubashi ICS's MBA Class of 2021, he completed his 2-year MBA program in August 2023. Jian provides a glimpse into this newly endowed course, which was jointly run by Hitotsubashi ICS and INPEX Corporation.
Posted by Hitotsubashi ICS on Sep 11, 2023 12:00:00 AM [Blogs] Post-ICS Culture: An ICS Alumni Perspective During the thrilling conclusion of Fireside Chat 1, we had the incredible opportunity to unite aspiring MBA applicants with ICS alumni from different class years. Participants engaged in lively dialogues, discussing various aspects of the ICS culture, the student experience, and the MBA journey. Alumni panelists also shared valuable insights into how their post-ICS MBA experiences have contributed to their current successes in life.
When the Past Shapes the Future: A Generational Look at Organizational Change This article introduces key insights from the academic article, "Generation Gap? The Branching Influence of Historical Myths". It explores how the stories organizations tell about their past, especially when faced with challenges, significantly impact how different generations within the organization respond and shape its future. Organizations often face critical moments, from launching new initiatives to navigating crises. In these times, leaders frequently turn to history, using past events and narratives to rally support and inspire action. This report delves into how these historical narratives are created by senior members and interpreted by newer generations, revealing their profound and often unexpected long-term effects. Our research shows that the way these stories are shared and understood across generations can either propel an organization forward or trap it in cycles of inaction. Posted by NOH, Sungchul on Jul 3, 2025 4:52:20 PM
Toward Sustainable Wage Increases: The Role of Human Capital Investment in Post-Deflation Japan Introduction: Breaking Out of Wage and Price Stagnation Japan has experienced a prolonged period of deflation, during which wages and prices stagnated for nearly three decades. Although there are recent signs of progress toward overcoming deflation, wage growth has not kept pace with rising prices. As a result, concerns about the future and the lack of real wage growth have dampened consumer spending. With purchasing power yet to recover sufficiently, there has been no meaningful improvement in the standard of living. Sustained wage growth is a key pillar for achieving stable economic growth. In this article, I argue that investments in human capital are foundational for achieving sustainable wage growth. While the recent trend toward higher wages is a welcome development, an examination of the reasons behind the wage hikes raises questions about their long-term viability. Wage increases are not a means to enhance productivity; rather, they are the result of improvements in productivity and added value. This virtuous cycle is driven by investments in human capital. Posted by ONO, Hiroshi on Jul 1, 2025 1:52:33 PM