Our Competitive Advantages
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Nearly a decade of consulting experience with comprehensive knowledge in business development and market-entry support as well as innovation management
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Profound insights into numerous markets and industries on a B2B level
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An expansive network, including corporations and SMEs, business associations, research institutes and universities, (governmental) institutions, venture capital organizations, and M&A agents
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A flexible and affordable one-stop solution for business development in Japan, including reliable partnerships in multiple consulting areas, such as legal advice, tax and accounting, communications, back office, and recruitment
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A deep understanding of Japanese culture and business customs, often providing lectures, seminars, and webinars on this topic
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Highly experienced in intercultural, cross-border management to balance Western expectations with Japanese values
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Memberships with several foreign chambers of commerce in Japan as well as the Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry
Our Team
Dr. Ralf Mayer
Founder and Executive Consultant
Ralf studied chemistry in Germany and joined a leading chemical company after earning his PhD. After working for 15 years in different managerial positions, he came to Japan in 2013, where he held the position of General Manager and Head of Regional Development. In this position he gained knowledge about the peculiarities of Japanese business customs and how to develop business in Japan. In 2017, he founded San-Ten Consulting to help foreign companies do business in Japan and expand their activities in this highly rewarding market. He knows the consulting business from both sides and always strives to provide a tailored, hands-on consultation that leads to practical results.
Learn more about Dr. Ralf Mayer on his LinkedIn profile.
Ayako Koyano
Executive Assistant
Ayako gained extensive experience in international communication through many years of work in international environments and different industries, such as electronics, IT, and legal services. She joined San-Ten Consulting in November 2020 and has since engaged in multiple projects, including technology scouting and market research. A skilled, bilingual (Japanese and English) communicator, she builds cross-cultural bridges between foreign and Japanese companies.
Learn more about Ayako on her LinkedIn profile.
Shoryu Shiobara
Marketing Manager
Shoryu has been studying media and communication in the US and gained experience in marketing by working for different industries, such as IT, fashion, and architecture. He is bilingual and well-versed in international communication. He joined San-Ten Consulting in January 2021 and has since engaged in the marketing of our customers’ products as well as our own activities.
Learn more about Shoryu on his LinkedIn profile.
Company Information
The Story Behind our Name and Logo
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The name and logo of San-Ten Consulting is derived from the Japanese 三・点 which means three dots or points, symbolizing the connection of two dots via a third. This represents how we bring foreign companies and Japanese companies together to conduct successful business.
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Moreover, the three points also represent a traditional business philosophy in Japan from the Edo period (1603-1868) called Sanpoyoshi (三方良し) which means, that a business is only considered “good” if it is good for the seller (売り方), the buyer (買い方), and society (世間). In this spirit, San-Ten Consulting wants to contribute to society by supporting balanced business between companies in and outside Japan.