Toru Yamashita
Message from Outside Director

In discussions on corporate governance, the focus has traditionally been on external factors such as the proportion of outside directors, diversity, and the governance structure. Going forward, however, we will need to shift our focus to the substance of governance. With the environment surrounding companies and society changing rapidly, I believe outside directors will not just be responsible for oversight; we also will be called upon to contribute to business transformation.

I believe the Group's mission in society is to create new value through advertising and marketing support and contribute toward the realization of a better society. To achieve this, the Group must comply with laws and earn society's acceptance. The Group also needs to lead societal change.

We are in an era of unprecedented upheaval, with global society growing increasingly complex, which is exacerbated by growing disparities and fragmentation, as well as accelerated digital transformation spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the emergence of generative AI, which heralds the approach of singularity. In particular, generative AI is poised to significantly impact the creative field that constitutes the core of the advertising industry. Therefore, the Group needs to step up its efforts to transform its business model and place a strong emphasis on fostering truly creative talent.

In this era of transformation, the next medium-term business plan that is currently under development will play a critical role in shaping the Group’s future. Making the necessary changes will undoubtedly present numerous challenges. In my role as an outside director, I am committed to serving as a partner who walks alongside the Company and contributes to its sustainable growth. To this end, I will pay careful attention to changes in society, emerging technologies, and other trends. I will strive to absorb necessary knowledge, rather than relying solely on my past experiences and expertise.