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About me

With a background spanning science, technology, and creativity, Naoki is a Creative Director at Dentsu and Chief Creative Officer of Dentsu Lab, working fluidly across brand communication, large-scale installations, and cultural events.

He works at the intersection of technology and creativity — developing ideas that address brand challenges, drive business outcomes, and tackle social issues. His approach has been recognized at D&AD, Cannes Lions, and other major international awards.

In 2021, he served as Creative Director for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony. Facing an empty stadium during COVID-19, he used data technology to animate national flags as if caught in the wind, synchronized with each nation's anthem — creating a moment of global pride and unity.

At Expo 2025 Osaka, he creative-directed "Under the Midnight Rainbow," a Guinness World Record-setting water spectacular combining thousands of fountains, lasers, projection mapping, and music into a landmark large-scale performance.

His broader work includes 'All Players Welcome,' unlocking creative potential in people with disabilities, and "Project Humanity," empowering diverse talents through play and design.

At Cannes Lions, he served as Jury President of Digital Craft in 2025, and as a Titanium juror in 2026.

Jury: Cannes Lions2026 / Titanium Lions

Jury President:Cannes Lions2025 / Digital Craft Lions

Jury: ADFEST2022 / Digital, Mobile and Digital Craft

Jury: Spikes Asia2023 / Mobile and Digital Craft

Jury: Cannes Lions2023 / Mobile Lions

Forbes Japan's "NEXT 100 - Hopeful Leaders to Save the World"

Speech: Cannes Lions 2022 "All Players Welcome"

Speech : Ars Electronica2023 "Project Humanity"

Details

AvailabilityLooking for work

ContractPerm

LocationTokyo, Japan

Skill LevelDirector

Tagged Job TitlesChief Creative Officer, Creative Director, Creative Technologist

Achievements

Pro member:

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Contributor:

Naoki has been a Contributor since 25th November 2015.

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2Top 100 Creative Leaders x 2

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Creativepool member since 2 July 2025

Naoki's work

Camouflage Against the Machines

The Continuously Changing Brand Identity “Shiseido Karakusa”

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