Our Team
One Shared Purpose: “Ongaeshi” (Giving Back)
AKISHA KK is led by a unique mix of Japanese, European and Global Business Experts, each with deep roots in Japan and decades of experience. With a shared vision and foundation, we understand the culture, the people, and the very specific business environment.
Together, we are building a better global future for the next generation of Japanese SMEs in the Manufacturing Industry, driven by our profound belief in “Blending East & West” (和洋混淆・Wayo Konko) while sincerely respecting the Japanese business mindset of “Win-Win Relations” (三方良し・Sanpo Yoshi) and “Self-Interest with Altruism” (自利利他・Jiri Rita).
Management & Growth Team
Jan-Pieter CATRYSSE (GM)
Jan-Pieter, as General Manager, heads up the day-to-day operations and strategic growth. With a strong background in both business management and cross-cultural collaboration, he ensures an impeccable implementation of AKISHA’s mission to support Japanese SMEs in succession crises, as well as their global expansion. His leadership fosters operational excellence and aligns teams to sustain purpose and legacy while enabling innovative growth.
Christian SWINNEN (BMM)
Christian, our Brand Marketing Manager, is responsible for AKISHA corporate identity and global market presence. Leveraging his expertise in international marketing and brand strategy, he bridges Japanese craftsmanship with global market expectations. Christian’s genuine customer-centric approach and cultural nuance ensures that our corporate story resonates globally, building trust and long-term loyalty.
Niki SMEETS (CXM)
Niki as Customer Experience Manager elevates our management commitment to service and satisfaction. With a focus on user-first strategies and digital innovation, he designs experiences that empower portfolio companies and their customers to scale up. Niki’s passion for co-creation and continuous improvement ensures every interaction reflects our values of quality, trust, and sustainable business growth for all parties involved.
Executive Team & Board of Directors
Rudie FILON (CEO)
Rudie, as Chief Executive Officer, leverages three decades of experience in Japan and Asia to guide our global strategy. Drawing on his background as an EU diplomat, he provides the executive leadership and cross-cultural expertise necessary to turn long-term vision into measurable results.
Takanori MIYADERA (CFO)
Takanori, our Chief Financial Officer, leads the finance department, overseeing forecasting and investment planning. His focus is on smart capital use and long-term returns.
Kotoku NIINUMA (CTOO)
Kotoku, in his function as Chief Technical and Operation Officer, focuses on smooth transitions and operational excellence. He ensures every company retains its unique value.
Rob VAN NYLEN (CPSO)
Rob connects Japan and Europe via his vast personal and business network. As Chief Purpose & Sourcing Officer he manages the acquisition process from identification to finalising majority ownership.
Bernard CATRYSSE (CAO)
Bernard is a governance and compliance expert with a deep knowledge of Japan where he permanently resided for several decades. As Chief Administration Officer he manages Human Resources, internal ICT systems, legal affairs, compliance and risk oversight.
Todd ROSE (SPA)
Todd is a Senior Partner and Advisor of AKISHA. Originally from California, he brings profound, hands-on experience working with Japanese companies in a variety of sectors for almost 30 years in both Osaka and Tokyo.