Toshihide Otsuka joins AKQA as Japan MD

AKQA has appointed a senior executive from ITOCHU to lead its operations in Japan, following the expansion of the companies’ partnership aimed at strengthening digital, design and technology capabilities in the region.

The move follows the announcement in late 2025 of an expanded collaboration between AKQA and ITOCHU, which builds on five years of joint work. The partnership is focused on increasing AKQA’s presence in Japan and integrating creative services with intelligent production and emerging technologies to support business transformation and long-term growth.

Executive move follows partnership expansion

Toshihide has been named to the leadership role at AKQA Japan after serving as Senior Vice President and General Manager of the ICT and Financial Business Division at ITOCHU International Inc. until the end of March.

With nearly 30 years of experience across media, technology and business development, he is expected to oversee regional operations and strengthen collaboration between AKQA’s studios and its partners.

Toshihide Otsuka, incoming leader, AKQA Japan: "I am honoured to lead AKQA Japan at a time of great potential, working collaboratively with a team dedicated to imagination and partnership. By translating bold ideas into effective solutions, I intend to deliver meaningful outcomes for clients and the wider community."

Leadership transition at AKQA Japan

The appointment follows the departure of Teppei Tsuchikawa, who will return to ITOCHU as General Manager of the Communications Business Department after leading AKQA Japan.

Teppei Tsuchikawa, former leader of AKQA Japan: "As AKQA Japan enters a new chapter, I can think of no better leader than Toshihide. He brings strategic clarity and is deeply committed to our clients and people. I look forward to supporting the next phase together."

Focus on regional growth and capabilities

Arvind Singh, APAC Lead, AKQA: "Our partnership with ITOCHU combines AKQA’s global capabilities with one of Japan’s top networks. Toshihide has deep experience in technology, media, and global business. He is well-positioned to lead AKQA Japan as we create new value for clients at the intersection of imagination and technology."

In his role, Toshihide will work with AKQA’s global leadership team and ITOCHU partners to strengthen regional relationships, expand studio capabilities and support the agency’s positioning as a frontier-focused organisation operating at the intersection of design, technology and business change.

www.akqa.com

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