Director Interview: Yoko Onodera

What was your impression when you first heard about KIMOTO?

To be honest, I was not familiar with KIMOTO until I was approached about the position of Outside Director. However, after viewing the company’s website, I learned that KIMOTO has built up its technological capabilities since its founding with aerial survey films, and has expanded a diverse range of businesses—including film, digital twins, and consulting—not only in Japan but also globally.
If I had to sum up that impression in one word, it would be "Amazing!" I strongly felt that it is a company that is constantly looking at the world and continuing to change.

Could you tell us the reasons why you accepted the position of Outside Director?

I myself joined the company that my father started and took over the management after working there for about 30 years.
Until my appointment as president, I received guidance and advice from many people inside and outside the company, and I feel that I am where I am today while receiving encouragement.
Until now, my life has been supported by many people, but from now on, if my experience is of any use, I want to do my best, so I accepted the job.

What do you feel you can apply to KIMOTO from your experience so far?

In order to survive and develop my company, it has been important for me to continue to take on new challenges while preserving our history and accumulated technology.
I have tried many things so far, but of course I have not only succeeded, but I have also experienced many times more failures. However, I believe that failure is the "seed" for the next success. I hope that the lessons and experiences I have gained from such failures will be shared with everyone at KIMOTO and that they will be of some use to future development.

Please tell us about any beliefs or values that have been cherished in your work so far.

You only live once, so I want to live with no regrets. To that end, I have set myself the task of challenging myself without giving up on what I want to do.
Also, when I make a big decision, I try to listen to the opinions of various people and gather the necessary information to make a decision. But in the end, it's up to you to choose your path. That's why I take it for granted that I only make decisions of my own volition based on what I am satisfied with.

Profile

1995 Joined Koei Kagaku Kenkyusho Co., Ltd.
2014 Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Strategic Core Technology Advancement Support Project for FY2014, 2015, and 2016
　　　　 "Anti-stress food material made from soybeans using a complex lactic acid bacteria fermentation method
　　　　　 Development" Project Leader
2021 President and Representative Director of the same company

How to spend your private time

On my days off, I often go to see my family who are on assignment alone, and I travel by plane, train, or car. Enjoying delicious food along the way and looking at the scenery from the car window is a good refreshment.
I also like to watch musicals, kabuki, rakugo, and other stage performances, and sometimes I go with friends or immerse myself in the works alone. It is an important time to get away from everyday life and prepare your mind.

*All of the above information is current at the time of the interview (May 2025).