BACKGROUND
Masa Shinomiya is a senior mechanical engineer at Yamaha Motor Ventures, where he is responsible for providing engineering support for portfolio companies.
Previously, he worked as a body design engineer for a scooter in Yamaha Motor.
Prior to that, he worked as a CAE engineer. He supported structural design, such as for commercial motorcycles, race bikes, surface mounter, and various research projects.
Masa graduated from Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology with a master of Mechanical system engineering.
In his leisure time he enjoys riding motorcycles and skiing.
BACKGROUND
Hajime “Jim” Aota is the Chairperson of Yamaha Motor Ventures. He was taking CEO role from 2019 to 2021.
Jim comes from Yamaha Motor Corporation, Ltd. headquarters based in Iwata, Japan. Before being promoted to CEO, he led the Corporate Planning Division which is responsible for playing a crucial role in continuing the growth strategy of the entire global Yamaha Motor Group. Jim was also a leader in making Yamaha’s 2030 long-term vision "Art for Human Possibilities" and continues to inspire its success.
Prior to joining Yamaha Motor, Jim had been with Mitsui & Co., Ltd, one of the largest trading firms, with experience working in Tokyo, New York, Detroit and London. Jim received his PLD from the Harvard Business School and graduated faculty of Political Science from Keio University.
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JIM
"You look at where you're going and where you are and it never makes sense, but then you look back at where you've been and a pattern seems to emerge." ― Robert M. Pirsig, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance
Why work with Yamaha/Yamaha Motor Ventures? What are you most excited about working in Yamaha Motor Ventures (YMV)?
The creation of YMV was a big leap for traditional 65-year old manufacturing company. Yamaha Motor was the real the venture spin-off company from the large organization, Yamaha Music. We had grown so quickly. We lost lots of things in the process of growth. This is the journey to get our sprit back. I am in a dream job thata I can change the worklife of our Yamaha people and other people in outside.
What do you look for the most in the early-stage startups?
Agility and strong passion to make the impact to the world.
What do you love to do outside of work?
Jim is forever 2 wheel lover, and currentlfy he loves mountain biking and roadbiking.
What’s your next adventure with Yamaha? Which Yamaha products would you love to try next and where?
Make impossible possible. Snowmobile. You can reach anywhere with power, and you will be surprised how quiet you turn off your engine. This is the most splendid noise cancelling experieince.