About

“Our goal is to strengthen business ties between the UK and Japan, promote and support the business interests of all our members.”

Background

Established in 1948, the British Chamber of Commerce in Japan (BCCJ, 在日英国商業会議所) is an exceptionally active and ever-expanding not-for-profit private membership organisation serving almost 1000 high-calibre members representing approximately 200 companies, via nine communications channels.

Open to members of all nationalities, we offer high-value events, productive networking and promotional opportunities, valuable information services, and access to influential institutions and individuals.

BCCJ Staff

Sarah Backley

Executive Director

As Executive Director of the BCCJ, Sarah is responsible for the leadership, general management, and communications strategy of the organisation. Her role includes implementing operational plans to achieve Chamber goals and objectives, as set by our Executive Committee (Excom); delivering a great member services programme; and managing all BCCJ events and activities.

Sam Maddicott

Head of Media, Membership & Marketing

Sam is responsible for membership and marketing at the BCCJ, delivering up-to-date communications across 9 digital channels, working to serve members needs efficiently. A background in digital marketing has seen Sam deliver projects for a range of companies, from Japanese start-ups to high profile global clients such as Goldman Sachs and Guru Navi. Sam specialises in SEO, Content Strategy, Video Production.

Yousef Berouche

Events Manager

As Events Coordinator, Yousef will collaborate with vendors, members, and sponsors to produce and execute a diverse range of events. He will focus on delivering events that are targeted, tailored and informed in-line with the BCCJ’s objectives, hoping to further connect, and strengthen relationships between Japanese and UK companies.

Mariko Okawa

Operations Manager

Mariko is responsible for ensuring the seamless daily operations of the BCCJ. Key duties include overseeing administrative processes, managing membership data, and supporting the Executive team in delivering strategic goals. Mariko also plays an essential role in providing high-quality service to our members, ensuring that the Chamber runs efficiently and continues to meet the evolving needs of its diverse community.

President & Executive Committee

Introducing our Executive Committee (Excom) for BCCJ year 2024-2025.

Richard Lyle

VP Trade & FDI, Intralink KK | BCCJ President & Government Relations Task Force

Alison Beale

Director, University of Oxford Japan | BCCJ Vice-President & Communications Task Force

Junko Kubokawa

Representative Director, President, Croda Japan | BCCJ Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Champion

Heather Prosser

Managing Director & Head of Sustainability, Morrow Sodali | BCCJ Responsible Business Champion

Ken Katayama

Individual Member | BCCJ Digi-Tech & Innovation Champion

Kentaro Kiso

President and Representative Director, Barclays Securities Japan Limited | BCCJ Membership Task Force

Keith Thomas

Chartered Accountant and Chartered Tax Advisor, Associate Partner at EY Japan | BCCJ Membership Task Force

Nora Yamada

Assistant Head, Development, Partnerships and Alumni at The British School in Tokyo | BCCJ Membership Task Force

Mark Dytham

Founding Partner, Klein Dytham architecture | BCCJ Events Task Force

James Nepaulsingh

Individual Member | BCCJ Events Task Force

Rob Williams

Senior Investment Adviser, AP Advisers | BCCJ Events Task Force

Rob Peer

President, BAE Systems | BCCJ Communications Task Force

Nicola Vote

Individual Member | BCCJ Communications Task Force

Vivian Tokai

Individual Member | BCCJ Government Relations Task Force

Hideo Tomita

Senior Site Representative Japan, LSEG | BCCJ Government Relations Task Force

Christopher Hunt

Deputy Trade Commissioner for North East Asia, Department for Business and Trade logo Department for International Trade

Marie-Claire Joyce

Trade Counsellor, British Embassy Tokyo

Jim Booth OBE

British Council Director for Japan

BCCJ Support Team

Calum Kelly

BCCJ Volunteer

In my fifth and final year of the JET programme, I have joined the BCCJ to make new connections and prepare for my next career in business. I’m looking forward to meeting the BCCJ members, hearing about your experiences, and gleaning valuable insights. Being just a tad older, I’ve had a couple of careers already. Before coming to Japan, I worked in Criminal Justice and risk management. Please feel free to ask me about it, although I can’t disclose whether I put my barber behind bars.

James Paterson

BCCJ Volunteer

After graduating with a First (4.0GPA) in Economics and Politics from Durham University, I came to Japan on the JET Programme. Now in my third year, I am looking to launch a career in policy or business in Tokyo. It’s a privilege to be in charge of the BCCJ’s Weekly Roundup newsletter. I am keen to use this opportunity to learn more about Anglo-Japanese ties and support the BCCJ’s work in strengthening them.

Genevieve Schmidt

BCCJ Intern

I currently attend Temple University Japan, where I am majoring in International Affairs and minoring in Political Science. I have a keen interest in public relations and international organizations, so I am so excited to be a part of the amazing BCCJ team. Through this internship experience, I hope to deepen my knowledge of cultural diplomacy, Japan-UK relations, and international commerce.

Misa Yasui

BCCJ Intern

I am Misa, a senior at Showa Women’s University majoring in international studies. I am also a student at Temple University Japan, majoring in general studies. I am excited to be working as a part of the BCCJ team! I am passionate about creating a community of locals and currently doing volunteer work conducting events with elementary schoolers. I look forward to meeting people from various backgrounds and learning new insights!”

Amira Mosqueda

BCCJ Intern

Hi! I’m Amira, I am currently a third year university student majoring in international relations and political science. I am eager to be a part of the BCCJ team and support trade efforts between the UK and Japan. I hope to expand my knowledge of Government relations and sustainable development. My goal is to acquire experience that can be applied to my future career

Our Partners

The BCCJ works alongside a number of trusted partners in both the public and private sectors to support the delivery of its mission.

 

The British Embassy Tokyo
The British Council
Department for Business & Trade
Export to Japan
British Chambers of Commerce Global Business Network

Contact Us

Do you have a question? Or would you like to learn more about how the British Chamber of Commerce in Japan can support your business?

Send us an enquiry – we would be delighted to hear from you.

Contact Us

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