CEO Insights Magazine

Keio University in Japan boasts a distinguished lineage of alumni leaders who have left an indelible mark across various industries. Among these trailblazers is Hirofumi Moriya, a visionary business leader and graduate of Keio University. After completing his education at Keio, Moriya embarked on a journey that showcased his versatility and strategic acumen. Notably, he delved into the realm of management consulting, gaining valuable insights into organizational dynamics and business strategy.

His quest for knowledge led him to the prestigious University of Pennsylvania, The Wharton School in the United States, where he honed his skills and expanded his global perspective. Returning to Japan, Moriya assumed pivotal roles in private equity, contributing significantly to Mitsui & Co., and later steering the growth of Nihon Itomic as its President & CEO. His trajectory from Keio alumnus to a leader driving innovation in the electrical water heating industry exemplifies the university's commitment to nurturing leaders with a global mindset and a transformative impact on their respective fields.

Engaging in an idiosyncratic interaction with CEO Insights Asia magazine, Hirofumi shares the imperious details of his journey and future road map for Nihon Itomic. Let’s hear it from him.

Share insights on the distinctive aspects of Keio University in Japan that go beyond academic offerings. What unique experiences did you gain from the campus environment?

Growing up in the rural west of Japan, my decision to study at Keio University in Tokyo marked a pivotal moment. Beyond academic pursuits, Keio's distinctive charm lies in its ability to foster openness. Immersing myself in a diverse campus environment exposed me to various backgrounds, perspectives, and cultures. This mingling of minds broadened my horizons and significantly shaped my worldview. Keio University, with its unique blend of academic excellence and cultural diversity, became a melting pot where personal growth thrived.

Define Nihon Itomic as an organization and elaborate on its current market position.

Nihon Itomic, with a rich legacy spanning 75 years, stands as a trailblazer in the realm of electrical water heaters. Our uniqueness lies in our unwavering commitment to electricity, eschewing gas, oil, or fossil fuels. As pioneers and market leaders, we take pride in cultivating and developing the electronic water heater market. Nihon Itomic's story is one of resilience, pioneering spirit, and a deep-seated commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions in the electrical water heating domain.

Provide an overview of your organization's flagship offerings and highlight the value additions customers can anticipate from these products or services.

Our pioneering achievement at Nihon Itomic lies in being the first to manufacture CO2 heat pumps for water heating. Recognized as the fastest in reducing carbon emissions, our product boasts four times the efficiency of gas water heaters. The magic of heat pumps is that they efficiently cater to space heating and laundry drying. This sustainable approach not only underscores our commitment to innovation but also harnesses natural resources responsibly. At Nihon Itomic, we provide a gateway to a greener, more efficient future, where cutting-edge technology meets environmental consciousness.

Describe the future direction you envision for yourself or your organization. Where do you see yourself heading in the coming years?

Embarking on a new frontier, I'm thrilled about our latest venture - a revolutionary micro heat pump. While traditional heat pumps dominate outdoor spaces, our mission is to shrink them to fit seamlessly inside homes and buildings, making this technology accessible and commonplace for our customers in Japan. My vision is to catalyze a widespread adoption of micro heat pumps in residential, business, and industrial settings. By innovating within the confines of homes, we aim to redefine comfort and efficiency, fostering a sustainable future where our micro heat pumps become integral to the fabric of daily living.

What insights or advice do you have for emerging leaders entering the industry, based on your own experiences and journey in leadership?

I'd advise emerging leaders to navigate the evolving business landscape with agility and openness. Traditionally, our corporate culture leaned towards conservatism and hierarchy, but in today's disruptive environment, embracing change is imperative. I encourage upcoming leaders to challenge conventional structures, promoting a more agile and flat organizational model. Embracing openness can catalyze innovation and adaptability which are vital traits in this dynamic industry. By steering towards a culture that values collaboration and quick decision-making, leaders can navigate the complexities of today's business environment with resilience and foresight.

Hirofumi Moriya, President & CEO, Nihon Itomic

Hirofumi Moriya is an accomplished business leader with a graduation from of Keio University and an MBA from The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, specializing in Finance and Private Equity. As the President & CEO of Nihon Itomic since October 2016, he leverages extensive experience, previously serving as Managing Director at Mitsui & Co., Principal Investment. With a background in private equity, he played a pivotal role in successful transactions, including a Buyout of Nihon Itomic, which is the first Buyout Deal, at Mitsui & CO., Principal Investment. Moriya's expertise extends to strategic consulting, highlighted during his tenure at KPMG Corporate Finance and Corporate Directions. He is recognized for driving business transformation and strategic initiatives in various industries.

Quick Facts:

•Hobbies: Weight Training and Tennis 

•Favorite Cuisine: Fish and Meat

•Favorite Book: The Fifth Discipline

•Favorite Travel Destination: Australia