Written by: Karin Wellbrock, Senior Level Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
We delve into the extraordinary leadership journey of Junko Tsuda, marked by resilience, empathy, and adaptability. From her early days near Hiroshima to her influential role at the US-Japan Council in Tokyo, Junko's story is a powerful illustration of dynamic growth and impactful leadership.
This is the second interview in our exclusive series, "Exceptional Leaders: Women as Gems," with this edition featuring Junko Tsuda, a distinguished executive renowned for her impactful contributions in both the for-profit and non-profit sectors in Japan. Junko‘s remarkable journey in leadership is a testament to her unwavering resilience and empathy. Throughout her career, she has faced numerous black swan events, demonstrating her adaptability, optimism, and courage. From her humble beginnings near Hiroshima to her role as the head of the US-Japan Council in Tokyo (until summer 2023), Junko has continuously grown and evolved, leaving a lasting impact on those she led. When we examine Junko's background and career path, we identify many characteristics and behaviors we would like to see more of in leaders. A role model for anyone aspiring to leadership, Junko shows that there are many ways to grow as a leader and have a satisfying career.
Junko Tsuda's background and beginnings
Junko Tsuda was born and raised in a quaint town near Hiroshima, Japan. Having grown up in a close-knit community, she learned to lead not through loud proclamations but through a subtle yet powerful influence among her peers, earning her respect and admiration. Her language education at Tsuda College, which focuses on progressive values for women's education, led Junko to embark on her career journey with a passion for becoming globally competent, based on values such as empowerment, independence, and breaking free from traditional confines.
Throughout her career path, Junko displayed her courage and willingness to embrace the unconventional. She transitioned from dancing to corporate life and proved her adaptability and courage. A dance background taught her discipline, self-improvement, and resilience – vital qualities in a competitive business environment.
Building blocks of a business career
Junko's career journey began in the 1980s at an innovative American advertising agency, where she combined her linguistic skills with marketing flair. Working alongside American teams, she developed campaigns aimed at the Japanese market, enhancing her skills in global marketing and communication. This early stage in her career was more than just job growth; it was a time rich with life lessons. She found great inspiration in her American supervisor, a working mother who adeptly combined her professional and family responsibilities, underscoring the value of gender inclusivity and work-life balance.
Feeling a pull towards larger challenges, Junko transitioned from creating ads to joining one of the world’s most iconic brands – Disney. This shift was a game-changer. She was involved in launching beloved films and overseeing significant budgets, experiences that broadened her professional horizon.
Her career took a personal detour when she moved to Spain to support her husband’s work for the Expo. This interlude not only strengthened her language skills but also enriched her cultural understanding. However, returning to Japan, Junko faced the stark reality of a tough economic climate, a situation that would test and prove her resilience once more.
Facing the fallout of Japan's 1990s bubble burst
The 1990s marked a pivotal moment for Japan with the bursting of the economic bubble. Many individuals faced significant challenges, but Junko's career took a different turn. She joined Hilton Hotel at the Disney Resort in Chiba, where she thrived in marketing, public relations, and communications roles. Despite that specific economic downturn, the hospitality sector remained resilient, offering Junko a valuable learning experience.
Adapting amidst adversity: Tackling 9/11 and SARS challenges
However, the hospitality industry soon faced unexpected challenges with the 9/11 attacks and the onset of the SARS pandemic. These events led to a temporary but significant downturn in tourism and travel. This shift prompted Junko to seek opportunities in sectors more closely tied to societal needs and infrastructure. Her search eventually led her to General Electric (GE).
At GE, a global powerhouse renowned for its financial prowess and leadership, Junko embarked on the next phase of her career. She joined the company during a period of transition, shortly after the departure of the legendary CEO, Jack Welch. Despite his absence, his legacy was still palpable, contributing to the unique atmosphere and prestige of GE. In her role, Junko honed her leadership skills, especially in running the communications department for one of GE's business units. Her professional growth at GE was pivotal, but the spinoff of her division opened the next chapter in her career. As a result of her strong network, Junko transitioned to ING, a leading Dutch financial institution, where she gained further expertise and experience.
Embracing crisis management: The unprecedented triple-disaster of Fukushima
When the Fukushima disaster struck in 2011, ING, the financial institution where Junko was working, faced a dire situation. As the head of communication, she had to handle the crisis communication effectively. During this difficult time, the HR position became available. Despite not having HR experience, Junko stepped up to take on this role, focusing on helping employees who were affected by the crisis. Her dedication to her team and her empathetic way of handling things helped her manage this challenging situation successfully.
After the crisis, Junko realized she missed working in communications and also felt a strong desire to help the areas affected by the Fukushima disaster. This interest led her to get involved in GE's Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities, particularly in the revitalization efforts in Tohoku. Her involvement in these initiatives eventually paved the way for her next role as director of the US-Japan Council (USJC).
When COVID-19 rewrote business rules
The US-Japan Council (USJC) engaged in a range of activities, including scholar exchanges and philanthropic efforts, which aimed to strengthen the US-Japanese relationship at the time Junko joined. To facilitate communication and exchange, the programs were traditionally conducted face-to-face.
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, this approach need to be drastically altered. Like most organizations globally, the USJC faced daunting challenges. As the head of the Japan office, Junko swiftly responded to these new challenges. She led the transition of the council's events and operations to digital platforms. Despite the obstacles presented by the pandemic, her proactive and innovative leadership ensured that the council continued to make a significant impact and maintained its relevance during these challenging times. After entering the post-COVID world, Junko decided to step down and start her active retirement chapter.
Nurturing the next generation
Junko is committed to empowering and mentoring the next generation of leaders. Through her experiences and insights, she aims to instill hope and encourage young professionals to embrace change and pursue their passions. Junko believes in the importance of continuous personal and professional growth, and she encourages young leaders to remain open-minded, adaptable, and fearless in their pursuits.
Conclusion
Junko Tsuda's leadership journey, characterized by empathy and resilience, exemplifies adaptability and courage. Beginning her career near Hiroshima and rising to become the head of the US-Japan Council, she has adeptly navigated numerous unforeseen and challenging situations, often referred to as 'black swan' events.
Early in her career, Junko's communication skills were not just a tool for gaining access to decision-makers; they also enabled her to craft compelling narratives and translate strategic messages effectively for her team. Her ability to tell engaging stories made complex strategies more accessible and understandable to employees. This skill has been a cornerstone of her leadership, particularly useful in guiding teams through crises.
As a mentor, Junko is deeply committed to fostering the next generation of leaders. She inspires them to embrace change and pursue their ambitions with relentless hope and optimism. Her journey is a testament to the power of combining effective communication with empathy and resilience in leadership.
Junko’s 5 leadership lessons
Adaptability and flexibility: Junko's journey demonstrates the vital importance of adaptability. This includes her transitions from dance to business across various industries and through different leadership roles, especially during times of crisis like the Fukushima disaster and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Empathetic leadership: A consistent theme in Junko's career is her empathetic approach to leadership. Whether in HR during challenging times or leading the US-Japan Council, her ability to understand and address the needs of employees and respect individual differences has been a cornerstone of her effectiveness.
Commitment to continuous learning: Junko's career path exemplifies the importance of continual personal and professional development. Her ability to evolve, whether through adapting to technological changes or taking on new roles, underscores her dedication to growth.
Valuing diversity and experience: Embracing a wide range of experiences has been crucial for Junko. Her journey through various roles and industries has provided her with a broad perspective and a diverse set of skills, enhancing her leadership versatility.
Effective communication: Junko’s evolution from a communications expert to a leadership role highlights the power of effective communication. Her clear, empathetic, and imaginative way of conveying ideas has been pivotal in her leadership success.
Discover a world of inspiring leadership and exceptional executives through Karin's insightful articles. Feel the spark of inspiration and connect with us for an enriching conversation at karin.wellbrock@kaygroup-asia.com – your journey to exceptional leadership starts here!
Follow me on LinkedIn, and visit my website for more info! Read more from Karin!
Karin Wellbrock, Senior Level Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
In addition to being a co-founder of Kay Group K.K in Japan, Karin Wellbrock is an executive coach and leadership consultant with over 30 years of global experience. A passionate advocate of human-centered, inclusive leadership, she creates exceptional results. To bring innovation to the workplace, she is conducting research in Japan and Europe to increase female representation in leadership roles. Her program "Leader-by-Design" demonstrates this. Dedicated to systemic change, Karin is a member of an all-women-led angel investment club in Asia Pacific, and mentors startup and NGO leaders and game changers in Asia and Europe. It is her mission to elevate 100 women to the C-suite.
