Exploring Business and Innovation in Japan: EDHEC EMBA Participant Rémi Poncet's Global Business Trip

The EDHEC Executive MBA programme is designed for experienced professionals looking to enhance their strategic vision, leadership skills, and global perspectives. 

A core component of this transformative journey is the Global Business Trips, which provide participants with invaluable, ground-zero knowledge of the political and economic environments of key global regions. These week-long immersive experiences offer a comprehensive overview of the host country's history and culture, with a strong emphasis on company visits that allow students to witness how businesses are adapting to the challenges and opportunities of a globalised economy. 

The programme encourages discussions, exchanges of perspectives, and the development of strategic insights, equipping executives with new modes of managerial thought.

For Rémi Poncet, an EDHEC EMBA participant and Europe General Manager at Acteon, a French medtech firm, the Global Business Trip to Tokyo was a chance to put these principles into practice. 

With Japan being one of the world's most advanced economies, this trip was an opportunity to explore firsthand how the country balances tradition with innovation. 

Through company visits, academic lectures, and cultural experiences, Rémi and his cohort gained a deeper understanding of Japan's approach to business, leadership, and technological advancement.
 

A Deep Dive into Japanese Business Culture

Reflecting on his experience, Rémi noted, “Japan’s business ethos, grounded in incremental progress and precise execution and strong quality standards, is different from the often-disruptive innovation models we see in Europe and in the US.”

This structured and meticulous approach to business was evident throughout the week-long trip, which included visits to some of Japan’s leading corporations and academic institutions.

The programme commenced with an insightful presentation by Business France, setting the stage for understanding the intricate relationship between Japan and international markets.

A lecture by Professor Hiroshi Nakamura, Dean of Keio Business School, further deepened the cohort’s understanding of Japan’s economic strategies and corporate philosophies.

Another highlight of the trip was visiting Mitsubishi Corporation, a well-known Sogo Shosha (general trading company), and Otsuka, a global leader in pharmaceuticals. 

Insights into Japan’s Healthcare System

When he joined the EMBA, Remi noted that he was “eager to expand my perspective beyond the medical device industry and gain a broader understanding of the healthcare sector as a whole.”

The EMBA trip to Japan provided a concentrated dose of what he was looking for.  
A key focus of the trip was Japan’s healthcare industry, which faces unique challenges due to its aging population.

A lecture by Philippe Auvaro from Medical Data Vision shed light on these issues, while a visit to the Fujita Medical Innovation Centre of Tokyo demonstrated how technology and research play a crucial role in addressing Japan’s healthcare needs. 

Rémi found these insights particularly valuable, as they connected to his broader goal of expanding his expertise beyond the medical device industry. 

“I saw the Executive MBA as an opportunity to take a step back, explore different industries, and develop a more strategic, high-level view of healthcare innovation.”

Exploring Japan’s Innovation Mindset

One of the most striking observations from the trip was Japan’s approach to innovation. Unlike Silicon Valley’s disruptive model, Japanese businesses emphasise incremental improvements—perfecting what already exists rather than overhauling industries.

“Interestingly, while there’s no kanji for ‘innovation,’ there is one for ‘R&D,’” Rémi pointed out, highlighting the cultural distinction in business evolution.

The cohort’s visit to RIKEN, one of Japan’s most prestigious research institutions, provided a glimpse into cutting-edge advancements in science and technology. Similarly, discussions with the team at Toppan and the visit to Yamato Logistics’ Chronogate showcased how Japan integrates efficiency, precision, and sustainability into its business operations.

A particularly engaging session at Haneda Innovation City included a demonstration from Kawasaki Heavy Industries, where students witnessed firsthand how robotics and automation are shaping various industries.

Rémi was struck by how Japan balances technological advancements with societal needs, ensuring that innovation benefits both businesses and communities.
 

Cultural Lessons and EMBA Leadership Takeaways

Beyond business and technology, the trip also offered cultural enrichment.

A lecture on the history of the Japanese language and discussions around the philosophy of “Sanpo Yoshi,” a traditional business principle ensuring benefits for the seller, buyer, and society, left a lasting impression on Rémi.

“This philosophy particularly resonates with me and aligns with the values I strive to bring to my professional work,” he reflected.

Leadership development has been a core component of Rémi’s EMBA journey. His experience in Japan reinforced the importance of adaptability, cross-cultural understanding, and strategic decision-making. 

“The EDHEC Executive MBA has been instrumental in developing my leadership skills in several key ways. It provided me with a deeper understanding of leadership frameworks and behavioural insights, helping me refine my approach to managing diverse teams across different regions.” 

Bringing Global Perspectives Back Home

The EDHEC Executive MBA is designed to equip professionals like Rémi with the strategic vision, leadership skills, and global insights needed to excel in an evolving business landscape.

Through international business trips, leadership coaching, and exposure to diverse industries, the programme fosters well-rounded executives ready to drive meaningful change.

Reflecting on his journey so far, Rémi summed it up best: “Beyond technical skills, the EMBA has been a powerful self-development tool. It has given me deeper insights into myself as a leader, helping me identify my strengths and build upon them to become a more well-rounded and effective manager.”

With the lessons from Japan now part of his professional toolkit, Rémi is poised to make a lasting impact in the global business arena.

For professionals seeking to expand their leadership capabilities and international business acumen, EDHEC’s Executive MBA offers an unparalleled opportunity to learn, grow, and transform.

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