One year ago, SeenThis took a leap into Japan. Since then, our Tokyo team has been building momentum around streaming technology, capturing attention, and driving outcomes through smarter video advertising.
To celebrate our first anniversary, we sat down with Takara Udagawa, CEO of SeenThis Japan, to reflect on the journey so far: the biggest wins, surprising learnings, and what the future holds.
Tell us about the past year: what have you been up to?
We have officially launched SeenThis Japan and have been focused on building a strong initial team. I feel fortunate to be working alongside such highly motivated team members. I’m truly grateful for the tremendous support we have received from SeenThis headquarters and our global offices across various areas. On the business front, our efforts have been dedicated to raising awareness of SeenThis among brands, agencies, partners, and publishers, building relationships, and encouraging them to experience SeenThis firsthand in order to understand the unique value we bring.
How did you position SeenThis differently in this market compared to global messaging?
SeenThis is first and foremost about driving performance in digital advertising metrics, but it also offers the added benefit of minimizing carbon footprint, a cherry on top. I believe this message resonates in other global markets as well. Since SeenThis provides video streaming technology, we can position ourselves not only as a pure technology company but also as a media company. Especially as we are still in the early stages of entering the Japanese market, we need to continually adapt our messaging to meet our customers’ needs and make the most of SeenThis’s technology.
What’s your biggest win this year?
We have consistently given our best in every campaign we have undertaken, not just in one specific case. Despite some challenges along the way, we have successfully launched over 100 campaigns in collaboration with partners such as DSPs and BLS providers, and we have built strong relationships with many of Japan’s leading agencies. This trust has enabled us to execute effective campaigns with top-tier companies across a wide range of industries. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to all the brands and agencies who courageously embarked on their first campaign with SeenThis, and we are truly grateful for their trust and partnership.
What’s the biggest difference working with a Swedish-founded company compared to a Japanese company?
Working with Swedish companies is a new experience for me, but I have discovered many similarities with Japanese companies such as a strong sense of respect, humility, and openness to different perspectives, rather than differences. Perhaps it’s also because SeenThis’s company culture is such a great match with my own personality, but I truly enjoy collaborating with colleagues from SeenThis HQ and global offices. It has been a rewarding experience, and I deeply appreciate the positive and welcoming environment they foster.
What would you tell your past self from one year ago?
You will be part of the new wave in digital video advertising, with many exciting days ahead. Make the most of every moment, and enjoy the journey!
What’s one thing about working here that would surprise people?
Long Swedish summer holidays! Personally, I really respect and appreciate the Swedish approach of prioritizing time with loved ones and enjoying the summer sunshine.
What’s the biggest opportunity you see for us in year two, and what are you most excited about?
I look forward to seeing more campaigns in Japan leverage SeenThis’s proprietary video streaming technology. We have introduced a range of products and packages tailored to support clients in achieving their unique goals. Beyond delivering strong digital advertising results, I’m excited to share major accomplishments with our clients by offering audiences a new video ad experience while at the same time contributing to a more sustainable global environment.