Shaping the future together: a conversation with JRC President Kaichiro Sakuma

Earlier this year, Kaichiro Sakuma assumed the role of President and CEO of JRC. At a time when industries around the world are being reshaped by technological innovation, digitalization and changing market demands, he has set out a clear vision for the future of the JRC Group. In a recent interview, Mr. Sakuma shared his thoughts on JRC's heritage, the challenges facing the organization and the opportunities that lie ahead.

Building on more than a century of innovation

Since its founding in 1915, JRC has contributed to the safety and security of society through its expertise in wireless communications and technology. Reflecting on the company's history, Mr. Sakuma spoke about the responsibility that comes with leading an organization with such a long-standing legacy.

"It is an immense honor to inherit this tradition, and I am newly resolved to ensure it is firmly passed on to the next generation."

For him, JRC's history is not only a source of pride, but also a foundation for future growth. While the company's values remain unchanged, he believes that adapting to an increasingly dynamic business environment is essential to ensuring long-term success.

A new chapter for JRC

Over the past year, JRC has taken important steps to strengthen its organization and position itself for sustainable growth. According to Mr. Sakuma, this transformation is about more than structural reform alone. It is about creating a company that is better equipped to respond to changing customer needs, technological developments and new market opportunities.

Central to this vision is the concept of "New One JRC" – a renewed commitment to collaboration, innovation and group-wide alignment. By strengthening cooperation across the organization and building on shared expertise, JRC aims to create a solid foundation for future growth.

As outlined in his inaugural address, the ambition is clear:

"Our goal is to become a 'Total Engineering Company for Wireless Communications' that solves our customers' challenges and contributes to the safety and security of society through our core technologies of wireless communications, sensing, and AI."

Supporting customers in a changing world

For customers across the maritime and industrial sectors, this vision translates into a continued focus on innovation, reliability and long-term partnership.

As digitalization, connectivity and automation continue to transform operations, organizations face growing demands related to safety, efficiency, cybersecurity and sustainability. Through its technologies, solutions and services, the JRC Group remains committed to helping customers navigate these challenges and prepare for the future.

Companies within the group, including JRC | Alphatron Marine, play an important role in turning this vision into practical solutions that support safe, efficient and reliable operations every day.

During recent visits to Posidonia and Alphatron Marine, Mr. Sakuma also shared his appreciation for the close relationships Alphatron Marine maintains with its customers. He highlighted the company's ability to engage directly with customers and understand their operational challenges as one of its key strengths and an important differentiator within the JRC Group.

Looking ahead, he expressed his expectation that Alphatron Marine will continue its evolution from a product-focused organization towards an increasingly solution- and service-driven business. By leveraging its expertise in service, digitalization and data, he believes the company is well positioned to create additional value for customers while contributing to the future growth of the wider JRC Group.

Looking ahead

Alongside technological innovation, Mr. Sakuma has highlighted the importance of culture, ownership and continuous learning. He encourages employees to take an active role in shaping the future of the company and to embrace change as an opportunity for growth.

As the JRC Group enters its next chapter, the focus remains clear: building on a proud heritage while embracing innovation, strengthening collaboration and creating value for customers, partners and society as a whole.

Guided by the principles of Passion, Reasonability and Emotion, the "New One JRC" vision aims to ensure that the company continues to contribute to a safer, smarter and more connected future.