SHOKO OGATA

Profile

Freelance PR/HR professional. Joined Recruit Sumai Company (now Recruit Co., Ltd.) in 2013. As an advertising sales representative, Shoko assisted real estate developers in promotional support and strategic planning. She then transitioned to Google Japan LLC, working in advertising sales and business development for e-books and news content. Aiming for a career in public relations, she moved to YOUTRUST Inc. as the first PR representative, handling responsibilities in public relations as well as human resources. In February 2023, she embarked on a freelance career. She provides extensive support mainly in public relations for seed to early-stage startups in Japan. In September 2023, Shoko joined Genesia Ventures as a PR Specialist. She is a graduate of the University of Tokyo’s Faculty of Economics and is currently enrolled in the MBA in Leadership & Talent Management course at Barcelona Executive Business School. Based in Paris since 2023.

Q&A

Place of birth/residence

Hyogo→Fukuoka→Tokyo→Sendai→Paris, France

Hobbies, Favorite Things, Holidays

Traveling around Europe. However, most weekends find me at home, immersed in various contents like comedy, movies, manga, and following J-Pop idol groups. I have a profound love for Japanese sake (certified as an international sake sommelier), but living in Paris has also sparked a passion for wine! Not forgetting, I also enjoy beer!

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

In high school, I was deeply committed to organizing school events, truly a festival enthusiast. During university, although I may not have been the most dedicated student (a bit embarrassed to admit), I was actively involved in brand marketing seminars, international exchange clubs, and dance circles, among other activities. Participating in various communities blessed me with many friends, an invaluable treasure in my life.

Favorite country/episode

France holds a special place in my heart. Not only do I live here now, but my first overseas trip, funded with my savings during university, left a profound impact on all my senses. I am touched by its commitment to historical and traditional values and its quest for a unique position within Europe and the world. The country, continuously evolving and seeking, offers a dynamic and inspirational environment, filled with authentic diversity, equity, and inclusion. On a personal note, my initial trip with my partner was to Paris, France. Living here after 10 years feels nothing short of a miracle.

Favorite Company/Vision/Value

I adore the vision of Recruit, the company I joined as a new graduate: "Create opportunities and transform yourself through those opportunities.”

Why did you choose to work at a VC?

I joined a VC to broaden the opportunities for Japanese startups and to contribute to creating more impactful ventures, while actively engaging in the ecosystem.