Kunio Makishima
Senior Director
Digital Services Promotion Division
Tokyo Metropolitan Government
Regional Policy Program (’06)
Please tell us about your career path so far. What is your area of specialization and how did you come to work in this area?
My career path has been quite diverse. I initially started my professional journey as a prep school teacher. Later, in 1998, I transitioned to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government (TMG), where I have worked in various departments such as education, finance, general affairs, port and harbor, and policy planning. And currently I am engaged in digital services. So throughout my tenure at TMG, I had the opportunity to engage in different roles, each offering a unique perspective on the workings of the government.
At TMG, managers are given the option to pursue one of two courses: one that exposes them to various departments, promoting collaboration, and another that allows for specialization in a specific field. I opted for the former, gaining a comprehensive understanding of the inner workings of the government and the importance of interdepartmental collaboration.
Also, from 2017 to 2020, I served as a secretary/assistant to the governor, and in 2021, I transferred to the Digital Services Bureau, where I was in charge of the digital transformation (DX) of TMG's operations. In April 2023, I assumed my current position within the Digital Services Bureau, where I continue to contribute to the advancement of digital services for TMG.
Makishima-san at his office in Tokyo
You are currently serving as Senior Director in the Digital Services Promotion Division in the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. Please tell us about your main roles and responsibilities.
In my current post as a Senior Director in the Digital Services Promotion Division, my primary responsibilities encompass promoting smart cities, harnessing the power of data, enhancing Tokyo's telecommunications infrastructure, bridging the digital divide, and advancing digital education to nurture children's creativity.
Managing a team of approximately 80 employees, I am committed to driving innovation and ensuring that Tokyo remains at the forefront of digital advancement.
Makishima-san with the Digital Services Bureau’s mascot. The goat character is a symbol of paperless.
In your current capacity, what do you see as the main opportunities and challenges for Japan over the course of the next five to ten years?
Japan is grappling with significant demographic challenges, including a declining birth rate and an aging population. The working-age population is also on the decline. Many workplaces are experiencing a shortage of skilled workers, necessitating the adoption of digital technologies such as self-driving cars to enhance efficiency and sophistication in our work processes. Tokyo, as the heart of Japan, needs to undergo a transformation into a smart city to rejuvenate its economy. Simultaneously, it is imperative to focus on providing digital education for the younger generation, who will shape the future, and bridging the digital divide.
Delivering the opening remarks at SMARTCITY X TOKYO, 2023 Summer Meeting.
What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your work? And what have been the most interesting or rewarding aspects of your career thus far?
One of the significant challenges currently is devising a strategy to transform Tokyo into a smart city. We are in the process of outlining both medium- and short-term goals to convert the entire city of Tokyo into a smart city and are formulating an action plan to achieve these objectives.
One of the most intriguing roles in my career occurred between 2006 and 2008, following my graduation from GRIPS. During this period, I was seconded to a real estate company established by TMG and was tasked with handling the company's bankruptcy. In this role, I assumed the position of team leader in the company's corporate planning department. I engaged in negotiations with creditors and contributed to the formulation of a revitalization plan. This experience stands out as a particularly interesting and rewarding chapter in my professional journey.
Makishima-san in his office during a meeting with colleagues.
What led you to GRIPS? What is the most important thing you got out of your studies, and how has your experience at GRIPS prepared you for future endeavors?
The decision to pursue studies at GRIPS was influenced by the numerous TMG managerial candidates who had chosen this path before me. I too aspired to enroll after successfully passing the managerial exam.
During my time at GRIPS, I enrolled in the Regional Policy Program studying subjects such as local government, local finance, political science, economics, and operations research. I wrote a policy paper on the business reform of a local government. The process of immersing myself in diverse fields of study at GRIPS and conducting in-depth research for my paper has proven immensely valuable in my current professional role.
What are some of your fondest memories of your time spent at GRIPS? And how do you stay connected with your former fellow students?
During my time at GRIPS, I had the honor of serving as the president of the Student Council. I cherish the memories of organizing numerous social gatherings, hosting the inaugural cultural festival, and overseeing the publication of newsletters for the student body.
To stay connected with my former fellow students, I utilize social media platforms, enabling us to maintain our friendships and share updates about our lives and careers.
Enjoying life at GRIPS with international students during a social event, summer 2005.
How do you maintain a balance between your work and the rest of your life? And what is your favorite thing to do when you are not working?
On weekdays, my schedule is packed with work, and I dedicate my mornings and evenings to household chores. During weekends, I prioritize spending quality time with my family. When I'm not working, my favorite activities are traveling and skiing.
Enjoying the beautiful scenery of Kamikochi Highland with the family, summer 2022.
Skiing in Niigata prefecture, February 2023.
If you could give one piece of advice to anyone considering studying at GRIPS what would it be?
I would recommend enrolling in GRIPS. GRIPS will open up a new world for you.
How would you like to maintain involved with the School? What do you expect from GRIPS as an alumnus and do you have any suggestions on how to further utilize the GRIPS alumni network?
I would like to attend seminars organized by GRIPS and participate in alumni meetings. Given the chance, I am keen on sharing my experiences with current students. As a graduate, I aspire to contribute meaningfully to GRIPS and its community.
