press release

For Immediate Release

Contact: Midori Takeuchi, Deputy Consul General
Consulate General of Japan in Detroit
400 Renaissance Center, 1600, Detroit, MI 48243
Phone: 313-567-0120 / pr@dt.mofa.go.jp

Mr. Ken Masumoto, Battle Creek, MI, Awarded Consul General's Commendation

Jaunary 22, 2013 - In recognition of his contribution to the promotion of trade and investment between Japan and Michigan, and to the development of the Japanese community, Consul General Kuninori Matsuda has conferred upon Mr. Katsuyoshi “Ken” Masumoto of Battle Creek, MI a diplomatic commendation. The commendation was presented at a reception sponsored by Battle Creek Unlimited, the economic development organization of Battle Creek, on January 22, 2013.

Mr. Masumoto’s major contributions include the following:

  • Since 1999, as Manager of Japanese Business Development for the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Mr. Masumoto has contributed to the economic development of the State of Michigan while simultaneously advancing the presence of Japanese businesses.  He has worked to attract new investment from Japan, help Japanese businesses create jobs, and retain Japanese businesses in the state, in such fields as the automotive industry, life science, biotechnology, and alternative energy.

  • For over 20 years, in addition to performing the duties in the state government, he has also carried out economic development work on the US-Japan relationship from the perspective of both local communities and the wider area. He has served as a board member for Battle Creek Unlimited, a founder and Executive Board Member for the Japan-America Society of West Michigan, and as a director in the public sector for the Midwest U.S. Japan Association.

  • Furthermore, for many years, Mr. Masumoto has taken on the responsibilities of a board member and advisor of the Japanese Saturday School in Battle Creek and those of a member of the Board of Directors of the Japan Business Society of Detroit, contributing proactively to the development of the Japanese community.

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