Advisors

Senior Advisor

Professional Background:

1981: Joined Canon Inc.
2001–2006: Senior General Manager, Canon Europe Limited (Head of Canon EMEA Intellectual Property)
2006–2008: Senior General Manager, Intellectual Property Technology Center, Intellectual Property & Legal Headquarters, Canon Inc.
2008–2010: Senior Director, Canon USA Inc. (Head of Americas Intellectual Property)
2010–2023: Head of Intellectual Property & Legal Headquarters, Canon Inc. (Appointed Executive Officer in 2010, Director in 2012, Managing Executive Officer in 2016, Senior Managing Executive Officer in 2021)
2020–: Visiting Professor, Innovation Management Research Department, Kanazawa Institute of Technology
2022–2023: Head of Economic Security Office, Canon Inc. (concurrently)
2023–: Advisor, Canon Inc.
2024–: Advisor, Takaoka IP
2024–: Visiting Professor, Osaka Institute of Technology

Key Leadership Positions and Committee Memberships:

2015–2019: President, Japan Intellectual Property Protection Association (AIPPI)
2019–: Vice Chairperson, Japan Intellectual Property Association (JIPA)
2020–2023: Chairperson, Intellectual Property Planning Subcommittee, Intellectual Property Committee, Japan Business Federation (Keidanren)
2022–2024-: President, Licensing Executives Society Japan (LES Japan)
2022–: Member, Economic Security Expert Meeting, Cabinet Office
2023–: Member, Intellectual Property Committee, Industrial Structure Council, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI)

Awards:

2015: Awarded the Intellectual Property Achievement Award by the Japan Patent Office in the Fiscal Year 2015 (Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Award)
2024:Awarded the Invention Encouragement Service Award by Japan Institute of Invention and Innovation in the Fiscal Year 2024

Senior Advisor

Patent Translations

Specializations:

Mr. Michael Santone specializes in the fields of electronics, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering, with expertise in patent translation and the philosophy of science.

Career Highlights:

In 1980, Mr. Michael Santone relocated to Japan, where he immersed himself in the study and practice of intellectual property law. His passion for philosophy led him to pursue an academic career, and in 1988, he became a philosophy professor at a private university, focusing primarily on the philosophy of science. In 1998, Mr. Santone transitioned into the field of patent translation, bringing his unique blend of intellectual rigor and linguistic proficiency to the task. His deep understanding of both technical and philosophical concepts allowed him to excel in translating complex patent documents accurately and effectively. In 2010, Mr. Santone joined Takaoka IP as the Head of the Patent Translation Department and Senior Advisor. In this role, he oversees patent translation activities while providing valuable strategic advice to clients. Despite the considerable differences between Japanese and English, Mr. Santone successfully mastered the Japanese language, demonstrating his dedication to effective communication and understanding across linguistic boundaries. Known for his fluency in Japanese, Mr. Santone is adept at communicating with clients and colleagues in their native language, fostering strong relationships and ensuring clear understanding in all interactions.

Advisor

Electrical & Computer Technologies
Mechanical Technologies

Career Highlights:

Mr. Akihiko Tojo studied electrical engineering at university and later joined a corporate Intellectual Property Department. With extensive experience in patent management, he specialized in handling patents, particularly in emerging technologies. He played a key role in patent applications, prosecution, and related matters. Mr. Tojo retired from his previous position and joined Takaoka IP as an advisor, offering valuable expertise in patent-related matters.

Advisor

Strategic Business Development and Intellectual Property Management

Career Highlights:

Ms. Hiroyo Clemente is a dynamic leader in the field of international business development who has consistently demonstrated her ability to define and drive client acquisition strategies while fostering innovation and growth. With over 15 years of experience in Patent and Intellectual Property law, Ms. Clemente’s contributions extend beyond conventional business development roles. Her keen understanding of intersectionality of IP legal issues, strategic vision and commercial considerations has enabled her to create and deliver major projects and innovative initiatives that have significantly impacted her organization’s success. At Takaoka IP, Ms. Clemente leads a dedicated team responsible for IP seminar project management, marketing, and client acquisition. Under her leadership, the team has achieved notable milestones, including the acquisition of new clients and the successful coordination of international intellectual property seminars. In her role as an Academic Partnership Coordinator at the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology Graduate University, Ms. Clemente manages exchange programs and collaborative project management initiatives. Her ability to navigate complex academic and industry landscapes showcases her versatility and adaptability. Ms. Clemente’s achievements are further underscored by her educational background, which includes a Master of Business Administration. Fluent in both Japanese and English, she possesses a rare talent for communicating complex legal and business concepts and for leading negotiations with finesse and precision. With her exceptional leadership qualities, strategic mindset, and unwavering dedication to excellence, Ms. Clemente is a driving force in the realm of international business development, earning recognition as a true asset to any organization fortunate enough to have her on board.