CEO Insights Magazine

Alumni leaders play an important role in determining the future of any industry. Emerging professionals benefit greatly from their experience, insights, and networks. In the fast-paced world of business and technology, alumni leaders drive innovation, mentor emerging talent, and influence strategic decisions. Their contributions go beyond their organizations, influencing industry standards and encouraging a culture of continuous improvement.

Shutaro Takeda is an Associate Professor at the Urban Institute, Kyushu University. Shutaro is also the Co-Founder & Chief Strategist of Kyoto Fusioneering, with a diverse background in academia, entrepreneurship, and policymaking. As a former UN official and member of a Japanese government panel, he has had a significant impact on energy science and innovation. He is passionate about education and mentors aspiring entrepreneurs while promoting societal impact through teaching and leadership. In an exclusive interview with CEO Insights, Shutaro enlightens more about his professional journey and his unique play at Kyushu University.

Could you walk us through the major milestones you have crossed in your professional journey?

In 2008, I enrolled in Kyoto University's Bachelor of Engineering program, to become a material scientist. However, the 2011 earthquake in Japan drew my attention to energy science. I took a leave from university to join the Japanese Self-Defense Forces, then returned to finish my master's degree in energy science in 2016. My hands-on experience in Bangladesh fueled my interest in sustainable energy, which led to a PhD in energy science in 2018 and a Master of Liberal Arts from Harvard in 2019. In 2019, I co-founded Kyoto Fusioneering after starting as an assistant professor at Kyoto University. I currently work at the Urban Institute of Kyushu Universit and teach entrepreneurship and energy science, contributing to Japan's energy policy development.

Share with us your academic experience from Kyoto University Japan. What did you learn from the campus beyond academics and what is the motivation that fuels your daily routine?

Kyoto University, a leading research institution in Japan, provides much more than rigorous academics. It emphasizes the value of diversity, academic freedom, and innovation. The university encourages students to think outside the box, challenge norms, and make significant contributions to society. My time there taught me to deviate from the norm and make a difference in the world, encouraging intellectual growth and the courage to positively impact society. These values had a profound impact on my academic and professional development. Albert Einstein once famously said, 'Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile'. This statement has had a profound impact on me since high school and continues to serve as my guiding motivation to fuel my daily routine.

Tell us about your take on dynamic technology trends in the industry and how he describes interventions in your organization.

I believe that the next generation is critical to societal change, with entrepreneurship driving the transformation. Encouraging young people to take risks and accept failure is critical to fostering innovation and growth. Failure is often discouraged in Japan, but I believe that taking risks is an important step toward dynamic technological advancements. My organization promotes this mindset through a variety of programs, educating high school students on the value of challenges and innovation, and preparing them to navigate and influence future industry trends.

Could you tell me about your leadership approach? What are the guidelines or methodologies to follow as a leader to lead your team? How do you keep yourself up to date with ongoing industry trends?

My leadership style prioritizes collaboration, innovation, and strategic policymaking. I've led several projects, most notably as a former UN official and member of a Japanese government panel. Recently, as Vice Chair of the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology Task Force, I played an important role in developing Japan's innovation policy, which was approved in June 2024. This policy aims to advance R&D and technology over the next decade. To keep up with industry trends, I engage in ongoing learning through discussions, debates, and networking. To avoid being stuck in an echo chamber, I prioritize open-mindedness and actively seek diverse perspectives. This approach keeps me informed and flexible, allowing me to effectively lead and drive innovation within my organization.

Could you tell me about the major milestones of your journey, what are the challenges you have faced and what is your success mantra?

My journey has been marked by significant milestones, beginning as a teen advocate for democratic education access and progressing to influencing policies for free high school education in Japan. Founding Kyoto Fusioneering was a watershed moment in my career, propelling me to positions as an opinion leader. Overcoming early challenges, such as funding limitations, taught me resilience and the power of persistence. My success mantra revolves around empowering others through education and entrepreneurship, fostering numerous startup ventures, and mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs at Kyushu University. Each milestone demonstrates my dedication to making a positive societal impact.

What is the future destination you are headed towards? What is your advice for the upcoming leaders in the industry?

After exploring various professions, I discovered that teaching careers have enormous potential. By educating and inspiring students, I hope to create a ripple effect that spreads knowledge and innovation exponentially. My primary goal is to develop young minds into transformative leaders and entrepreneurs who will make a significant societal impact. In the next 5-10 years, I hope to continue in academia, support startups, and cultivate innovative thinkers. My advice to aspiring industry leaders is to embrace their individuality, trust their instincts, and pursue their passions fearlessly. Believing in oneself and daring to be different is essential for achieving success and driving meaningful change.

Shutaro Takeda, Associate Professor, Kyushu University

Shutaro has a diverse background in academia, entrepreneurship, and policy. Having previously served as a United Nations official and on Japanese government panels, his contributions to energy science and innovation are notable. Shutaro is dedicated to guiding emerging leaders, supporting startups, and advancing societal well-being through educational and strategic initiatives.

•Hobbies: History Research & Study

•Favorite Cuisine: Tafelspitz

•Favorite Travel Destination: Malta