AKI ITO

Strength in HR for new ventures and organizational launches in the 1-200 employee phase.
CEO of an HR support company since November 2025.
2018- At Mercari, Inc., served as HRBP Manager/Recruiter for multiple new ventures and participated in the Mercari Group-wide HR system overhaul project.
2016– Joined Kyash Inc. as the first HR staff member and seventh employee overall, contributing to company growth through HR, PR, and business development. 2013– Joined NTT East as a new graduate, engaged in corporate sales and launched an internal volunteer group.

Place of birth/residence

Born in Tokyo, raised in Ibaraki and Chiba, and currently in Tokyo.

Hobbies, Favorite Things, Holidays

Train (route map), playing with children, enjoying delicious drinks and food.

Episodes from your school days (club activities, majors, etc.)

Ever since I can remember, I've loved launching new ventures and taking on fresh challenges. This includes volunteering abroad, starting businesses, and overseas internships.

Favorite country/episode

Vietnam, Italy, and the U.S. state of Hawaii. I absolutely love these peaceful lands with their rich culinary traditions.

Favorite Company/Vision/Value

Hermès. The “entrepreneurial spirit” of a craftsman organization spanning nearly 200 years.

Why did you choose to work at a VC?

I absolutely love seed-to-early-stage companies and want to help them avoid stumbling blocks in their organizational development.

Favorite motto

Where there is a will, there is a way.