CAJ Hosts University of Minnesota Students for a Session on Climate Action, Shareholder Engagement, and Life Design

Corporate Action Japan welcomed 22 students from the University of Minnesota’s Carlson School of Management as part of the school’s Design Your Life in a Global Context program. The session was led by Executive Officers Akira Nakamura, CFA, and Takeo Omori, CFA, both graduates of the Minnesota Carlson MBA program.

The visit provided students with an opportunity to learn how climate action, long‑term corporate value, and responsible investment intersect within Japan’s corporate landscape.

Shareholder Engagement and the Role of Investors in Climate Transition

Takeo Omori introduced CAJ’s approach to shareholder engagement, drawing on his experience as a global equity analyst and ESG specialist. Using case studies from Japan’s steel and automotive sectors, he outlined how structured engagement and collaboration with institutional investors can support corporate decarbonization and long‑term value creation. Students noted that CAJ’s work demonstrated how　“prototyping and small, intentional actions can create social impact,” aligning closely with the program’s focus on designing meaningful change.

Wayfinding, Values, and a Career in Global Finance

Following the engagement discussion, Akira Nakamura shared reflections from his 38‑year career in global finance and his transition into climate action and the NGO/CSO sector. He highlighted the importance of values‑based leadership, resilience, and human connection in shaping a purposeful career.

Student reflections emphasized the impact of these themes:

• “From CAJ, I learned that as long as you have a dream and a passion, you’ll find happiness.”
• “His shift from pursuing a career to seeing the value in people connected directly to our class.”
• “I was emotionally moved… His story about 9/11 and the value of connection, contribution, leadership, and expertise—that is ikigai.”

Supporting the Next Generation of Global Leaders

The students’ feedback indicated that the CAJ visit was one of the most impactful components of their time in Tokyo, offering both professional insight and personal reflection.

CAJ remains committed to fostering global dialogue and supporting future leaders who will contribute to a sustainable and decarbonized economy. We look forward to continued collaboration with the University of Minnesota and to welcoming future student groups.