Eiichiro Yanagawa has been a lifelong analyst/researcher/consultant, and he continues to analyze the industry to propose innovations no matter where he is or what he’s doing. His focus is on the gap between global and local, and opportunities where the two intersect. When he's not busy helping financial institutions design core systems solution architecture by selecting key vendors, you can find Eiichiro listening to Eric Clapton and enjoying sports.
WHERE ARE YOU FROM ORIGINALLY / WHERE DID YOU GROW UP?
I was born in Shizuoka, Japan, where I grew up, with a close-up view of Mt. Fuji every day. I live in Minato Ward, which is the center of Tokyo. Although a lot of people have to spend a long time commuting, I don’t. It takes me less than 30 minutes door-to-door, including a 7-minute train ride. The OWG Tokyo office is on the 13th floor of the Imperial Hotel Tower, where I enjoy a perfect view of downtown Tokyo from my desk.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CITY/PLACE YOU’VE TRAVELED?
My favorite place is Hawaii. Beautiful nature, amazing weather year-round, interesting history and culture, the people’s aloha spirit ... I’ve traveled to many countries both on business and privately, but there’s no place I’ve been to more than ten times other than Hawaii. I love it!
FAVORITE ANIMAL?
Peter Rabbit and his cousin, Benjamin Bunny.
FAVORITE HOBBY?
Music, Movies, Sports.
FAVORITE BAND / MUSIC / SONG ?
I love jazz, rock, and classical music. My favorite tunes are My Spanish Heart (Chick Corea), One More Car, One More Rider (Eric Clapton), and the Brandenburg Concerto (Johann Sebastian Bach).
FAVORITE FOOD DISH
Sushi. In Tokyo, you can enjoy authentic sushi at a reasonable price. Stop eating fake sushi and come to Tokyo, everyone!
Any advice for people entering your industry or discipline?
I’ve always worked with the following three points in mind:
- It takes competitive relationships and technology to make innovation happen.
- Digital transformation should be momentum toward innovation, not a purpose.
- Finance and IT are fundamental to all corporate activities and even consumer living. They are also a source of competitiveness.
