Kajima Corporation

As the first hire on Kajima's corporate innovation team in Singapore, I played a key role in the establishment of The GEAR by Kajima, the group's technology services and open innovation subsidiary. From conceptualization to execution, I helped define its brand identity and strategic direction, ensuring its positioning as a key player in shaping the future of the built environment. Additionally, I developed and implemented marketing and ecosystem development strategies to strengthen its influence and industry presence.

I also spearheaded initiatives to cultivate an open innovation ecosystem at The GEAR: Kajima Lab for Global Engineering, Architecture & Real Estate — Kajima’s first overseas headquarters, research and development facility, and open innovation hub. By engaging startups, government agencies, corporates, educational institutions, and key ecosystem players, The GEAR quickly became a vital platform for innovation, collaboration, and technological progress.

To foster greater public engagement, I conducted building tours and created educational materials to showcase the innovation capabilities of The GEAR building. Additionally, I managed our Startup Residency accelerator program, launched our Community Access Program, and actively supported startups in conducting proof-of-concept projects within our space. These efforts reinforced The GEAR’s role as a catalyst for transformative industry innovation.

Some of the key partners I'd worked with include Panasonic, NTT, Building and Construction Authority Singapore, JTC Corporation, Singapore Management University, Singapore University of Technology and Design, Singapore Polytechnic, and Temasek Polytechnic.

Kajima Corporation (鹿島建設株式会社, Kajima Kensetsu Kabushiki-gaisha) is one of the oldest and largest construction companies in Japan, with a legacy of excellence and innovation spanning nearly two centuries.