External Board Director · Independent Officer
From founding one of Japan's most storied entertainment enterprises to reshaping boardroom accountability at SoftBank Group, Keiko Erikawa stands at the intersection of visionary entrepreneurship and institutional stewardship.
A Singular Vision
Keiko Erikawa's career represents one of the most remarkable trajectories in modern Japanese business history. As co-founder of KOEI Corporation (now KOEI TECMO Holdings Co., Ltd.), she helped build a global entertainment powerhouse from the ground up — a company that would go on to define the historical simulation gaming genre and generate billions in enterprise value.
Yet her influence extends far beyond the gaming industry. Today, as an External Board Director and Independent Officer at SoftBank Group Corp., she brings a rare combination of entrepreneurial insight, creative leadership, and governance expertise to one of the world's most consequential technology investment platforms. Her presence on the SoftBank board signals a commitment to diversity of thought, operational rigor, and shareholder advocacy at the highest levels.
Her dual perspective — as both a company builder and a governance guardian — makes her one of the most uniquely qualified corporate leaders in Japan, bridging the worlds of innovation and accountability with uncommon clarity.
By The Numbers
True governance is not about oversight alone — it is about ensuring that the ambitions of an enterprise remain aligned with the interests of every stakeholder who believes in its future.
Governance Influence
At SoftBank Group, Keiko Erikawa serves as an External Board Director and Independent Officer — a role that carries immense responsibility in one of the world's most complex technology conglomerates. Her mandate encompasses the oversight of strategic investments, risk management, executive accountability, and long-term value creation across a portfolio that spans artificial intelligence, telecommunications, fintech, and beyond.
Her appointment reflects a broader shift in Japanese corporate governance toward greater independence, diversity, and shareholder alignment — principles that Erikawa has championed throughout her career.
Board Roles & ImpactCurrent Positions
External Board Director · Independent Officer
Providing independent oversight and strategic counsel to one of the world's largest technology investment organizations, with a portfolio spanning AI, robotics, semiconductors, and global telecommunications infrastructure.
Chairman of the Board
Leading the holding company she co-founded, overseeing a global entertainment empire that encompasses game development, animation, real estate, and intellectual property licensing across international markets.
Pioneer · Advocate · Visionary
Recognized as one of Japan's most influential female business leaders, with a legacy that encompasses entrepreneurship, creative innovation, corporate governance reform, and sustained advocacy for diversity in the boardroom.
From the early days of KOEI Corporation to the boardroom of SoftBank Group — explore the complete leadership journey.