The WIPO Japan Office, a specialized agency of the United Nations, will host an online symposium, “IP and Corporate Management,” on February 17, 2026.
This event aims to deepen understanding of the strategic use of intellectual property (IP) and to illustrate how IP contributes to corporate growth and the creation of innovation. Through practical insights grounded in real-world experience, the symposium will highlight how IP can inform and strengthen management decision-making.
A special dialogue with Mr. Mito, Representative Director & President of Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd., will offer unique insights into the integration of IP strategy and executive decision-making. Drawing on his rare career path—from the IP division to the top management—his perspectives will provide valuable guidance for business leaders and IP professionals alike.
In addition, expert lectures will present practical examples of IP utilization in Japan and abroad, share the latest trends, and showcase cases in which IP has contributed concretely to corporate growth. The program is designed to promote multifaceted understanding of IP strategies and to support their effective application in business practice.
What you can gain
- Insights into IP strategy from top management
Gain practical perspectives from a corporate leader with hands-on experience in both IP operations and executive decision-making. - An international perspective on management and IP
Learn how different countries approach IP utilization and decision-making, and acquire globally relevant viewpoints for developing effective IP strategies. - Efficient access to the latest trends from diverse experts
Understand the multifaceted role of IP in management through presentations by experts offering insights from various professional backgrounds.
Who should participate
- Corporate executives interested in integrating IP into management decisions and long-term business strategies
- IP and legal professionals seeking practical case studies and the latest industry trends
- R&D and business planning teams looking to leverage IP in technology development and new business creation
- Startup founders and SME leaders aiming to enhance corporate value and strengthen global competitiveness through IP
- Professionals engaged in international business who wish to better understand global IP systems and practices
This symposium offers a valuable opportunity to explore new approaches to management through the strategic use of IP, together with leading experts.
We look forward to your participation.
Program*
*Program details will be added as they become available.
14:00～14:05 Opening Remarks
Tomoki Sawai
Director, WIPO Japan Office
14:05～14:20 Keynote Speech
Kenji SAITO
Director General, Intellectual Property and Global Talent Dept, Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO)
14:20～14:35 Keynote Speech
Maki NAKAMURA
IP Strategist and Patent Attorney, Alps Alpine Co., Ltd.
Managing Director of JIPA
14:35～14:50 Keynote Speech
Shinji KOMAI
President / Patent Attorney, PIRAMIDE IP Law Firm
15:00～16:00 Special Dialogue
Nobuaki MITO
Representative Director & President, SUMITOMO CHEMICAL COMPANY, LIMITED
16:00～16:05 Closing Remarks
About WIPO Japan Office
WIPO Japan Office, located in Tokyo, is one of the external offices of WIPO. It widely promotes IP systems and roles of IP, and WIPO projects and services. It also bridges among the Japanese government, courts, and IP users. In particular, it places emphasis on promotion of the IP and its roles for innovation to corporate management, SMEs, and youth.