Leadership Dojo, a new leadership development initiative launching in 2026, brings together C-level executives from Japanese companies operating in Germany. The aim is to foster cross-cultural leadership, self-awareness, and authentic peer exchange. The initiative was founded by leadership advisory consultant Yoshiko Ogawa of Egon Zehnder and communications expert Bjoern Eichstaedt, Founder and Chief Editor of the digital business magazine “J-BIG – Japan Business in Germany” and Managing Partner at communications agency Storymaker.
Designed as an exclusive executive community, Leadership Dojo offers senior leaders a confidential space to step away from operational pressure and reflect on their leadership identity in a rapidly changing global business environment. Inspired by the Japanese concept of a dojo – a place dedicated to continuous practice and personal growth – the initiative focuses on leadership development through dialogue, reflection, and shared experience rather than traditional training or networking formats.
Drawing on years of experience working with German and Japanese organizations, Ogawa and Eichstaedt observed that executives across both cultures often face similar strategic and organizational challenges but rarely have opportunities for meaningful exchange. Cultural differences in communication styles, decision-making, and leadership expectations frequently create misunderstandings between headquarters and subsidiaries, despite shared goals and high professional expertise.
Leadership Dojo aims to bridge this gap by connecting leaders raised in Germany and Japan in a trusted environment, where they can openly discuss uncertainty, explore new perspectives, and develop the skills required for modern leadership. In an era shaped by technological disruption, global crises, and increasing complexity, the founders emphasize that curiosity, adaptability, and adult development have become essential leadership capabilities.
The initiative seeks to redefine leadership success by encouraging executives to move beyond the traditional expectation of having all the answers and instead embrace learning, reflection, and collaborative thinking as drivers of sustainable impact.
The first invitation-only Leadership Dojo event will take place in Munich on July 2, 2026. It will feature a keynote presentation by a German C-level executive of a Japanese company on organizational culture and business success, followed by moderated roundtable discussions among participating executives.
Read the full conversation on the J-BIG website and register if you are interested in the event here.
