In June 2024, Takaoka IP’s advisor Kenichi Nagasawa was awarded the prestigious Invention Encouragement Service Award by the Japan Institute of Invention and Innovation (JIII) for his exceptional contributions to the field of intellectual property. The award recognizes individuals who have made significant advancements in inventions, designs, and contributions to the development of inventors.
JIII, a leading organization promoting innovation and scientific advancement, has played a crucial role since its founding. It continues to honor individuals who have contributed to the progress of Japan’s science and technology through its awards and exhibitions. The Invention Encouragement Service Award is given to those who have completed outstanding inventions or designs and have contributed to the promotion, guidance, and development of inventors. Kenichi Nagasawa’s recognition underscores his leadership and commitment to fostering innovation.
The award ceremony was part of JIII’s 120th anniversary celebration held on July 11, 2024, at The Okura Tokyo. The event included a commemorative ceremony and the National Invention Awards for 2024. With the presence of Princess Hanako, the wife of Imperial Prince Masahito, and more than 500 guests, including award recipients, special contributors, and representatives from various industries, the event was held with great fanfare. The ceremony highlighted Japan’s long-standing tradition of invention and innovation.
Kenichi Nagasawa’s Distinguished Career and Contributions to Intellectual Property
Since joining Canon in 1981, Kenichi Nagasawa has worked in the intellectual property (IP) field for more than 40 years. After serving as the Head of the Intellectual Property Groups at Canon Europe and Canon U.S.A., Mr. Nagasawa was appointed Group Executive of Corporate Intellectual Property and Legal Headquarters in 2010. His leadership journey continued as he became a Director in 2012, Managing Executive Officer in 2016, Senior Managing Executive Officer in 2021, and Senior General Manager of the Economic Security Office in January 2022. In April 2023, Mr. Nagasawa transitioned into his current role as Advisor to Canon.
In addition to his corporate roles, Mr. Nagasawa has been actively involved in shaping Japan’s IP policies through various government and industry committees. For many years, he has been a member of IP-related Committees and Subcommittees organized by the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry (METI) and the Japan Patent Office (JPO). Currently, he holds key positions in several influential organizations, including Vice Chairperson of the Japan Intellectual Property Association (JIPA), President of the Licensing Executives Society (LES) Japan, and Chairman of the Sub-Committee on Policy Planning, Intellectual Property of Keidanren. Furthermore, Mr. Nagasawa serves on Japan’s Economic Security Expert Meeting under the Cabinet Office and is an External Hearing Member of the Japan Patent Attorneys Association (JPAA).
His long-standing contributions have significantly impacted both Canon and the broader intellectual property landscape, not only in Japan but globally. Mr. Nagasawa’s leadership continues to influence the next generation of IP professionals and industry standards.
For more details, please visit the Japan Institute of Invention and Innovation website or contact Takaoka IP.
