Matcha with Jason | A BCCJ x Bentley Lewis Podcast Series
The British Chamber of Commerce in Japan presents the inaugural triad of conversations through our new podcast series, Matcha with Jason.
Over the past few months, BCCJ Member Jason Chuei, APAC Managing Partner of Bentley Lewis Executive Search, has brought together voices from across the Chamber community to explore the ideas shaping leadership, trust and British business in Japan today.
The conversations are continuing throughout the year. Should you wish to join Matcha with Jason, please get in contact with Jason directly, or email a BCCJ team member.
Session 1: The British Brand in Japan - Trust, Tradition and Adaptation
Guests: Sarah Backley (Executive Director) and Josh Welch (Digital Marketing and Communications Lead), British Chamber of Commerce in Japan
What does ‘British’ represent in Japan today?
Jason is joined by Sarah and Josh from the BCCJ team to consider how British businesses can draw upon a reputation for heritage, quality and trust while continuing to evolve within a distinctly Japanese commercial environment.
The conversation explores the value of cultural awareness, the importance of listening before entering a market, and how British organisations can establish a presence that feels both authentic and locally relevant.
Listen for: Reflections on building credibility, adapting without losing identity and creating enduring UK–Japan business relationships.
Session 2: Building Psychological Safety and Trust in the Japanese Workplace
Guest: Anna Iveson (Director of Marketing and Admissions), Rugby School Japan
Trust within an organisation is rarely created through policy alone. It is built through the everyday behaviours that allow people to contribute openly, challenge ideas and feel that their voices carry weight.
Drawing on her experience within international education, Anna joins Jason to discuss how leaders can cultivate psychological safety across culturally diverse teams in Japan. Their conversation considers communication, inclusion and the conditions required for people to take initiative without fear of failure.
Listen for: Practical perspectives on creating open, resilient workplaces where local and international talent can contribute with confidence.
Session 3: C-Suite Leadership: What Should Leaders Give Away Today?
Guest: Helen Iwata (Founder & President), Sasuga Communications K.K.
Leadership is often associated with responsibility, control and having the answers. Yet the most effective leaders may be defined by what they are prepared to release.
In this candid conversation, executive coach Helen Iwata explores what today’s C-suite leaders should ‘give away’, from unnecessary control and constant intervention to the expectation that every decision must begin and end with them.
Jason and Helen examine how thoughtful delegation, stronger middle management and clearer communication can create more capable teams while reducing pressure at the top.
Listen for: Insight into leading with greater trust, reducing organisational friction and creating more impact without carrying every responsibility alone.
Interested in being a part of the warmest community in Japan? Get in touch with us!