Japan, UCLA-NUS EMBA (Class of 2024/2025)
Nobue Ito
Head of Community for Pococha
DeNA
Bridging Cultures and Expanding Horizons: How Nobue Ito is Shaping the Future of Tech Leadership with the UCLA-NUS Executive MBA
Earning an MBA has been Nobue Ito’s long-standing ambition, but she initially had to put it on hold. In her 20s, she was accepted into an MBA program, but could not pursue it due to family circumstances. After reflecting on her career and personal aspirations after COVID-19, she recognised that now was the right time to invest in her growth.
“This program represents a significant opportunity to fulfill a long-held ambition,” she says. “With my experience working in the APAC region and with American companies, I have gained insights into both cultures. This dual perspective motivates me to expand my expertise further.”
Since starting the UCLA-NUS Executive MBA, Nobue has embraced new challenges and career opportunities. She recently transitioned from DeNA to Airbnb, where she now leads projects to expand hosting in Japan, ensuring more visitors can experience the country meaningfully.
Expanding Leadership at Work and Home
Having worked at Google and Amazon, Nobue is no stranger to fast-paced, global environments. However, she admits that balancing the demands of an Executive MBA with her professional responsibilities was one of the program’s biggest challenges.
As a mother of three, she also sees her decision to take on the program as an example for her children. “My commitment to studying hard serves as a source of inspiration for my children, reinforcing the message that education and ambition are vital,” she says.
Balancing personal and professional commitments while pursuing an MBA has strengthened her ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.
Furthermore, the UCLA-NUS EMBA has reshaped Nobue’s perspective on leadership. “The EMBA has significantly altered my perspective on leadership,” she explains. “It has given me the tools and insights to navigate complex business environments with greater confidence and clarity.”
The experience also taught her resilience and sharpened her time management skills, enabling her to manage competing priorities more effectively.
Another unexpected insight Nobue gained from the EMBA was her ability to lead with empathy.“Engaging with peers from various backgrounds has emphasised the importance of embracing diverse perspectives, enriching my leadership approach,” she says.
She also credits her experience at UCLA. While enrolled in the program, she had the opportunity to consult for a U.S. non-profit organisation. This defining moment strengthened her ability to approach leadership with a broader, people-first mindset.
Applying the EMBA to a New Role at Airbnb
The EMBA has provided Nobue with practical tools and frameworks that have reshaped her approach to strategic decision-making. After completing the program, she took on a new challenge at Airbnb, where she now leads a program focused on expanding hosting in Japan.
“The EMBA has equipped me with frameworks for strategic thinking and effective decision-making,” she explains. “My role now involves leveraging my experience to collaborate with cross-functional teams across borders.”
This transition reflects her commitment to applying her expertise on a larger scale and contributing to a company focused on shaping the future of travel and hospitality. Studying in a diverse, global environment has also reinforced the importance of inclusivity in leadership and community-building. “Engaging with individuals from varied backgrounds has underscored the significance of inclusivity in community-building,” she explains.
This perspective shapes her leadership approach at Airbnb, where she focuses on creating welcoming experiences for international travelers in Japan. She believes Airbnb can potentially transform visitors’ engagement with the country, making travel more immersive and accessible.
“One of my priorities is to enhance the experience of foreigners in Japan,” she says. “I believe Airbnb can play a transformative role in expanding our market share in this region.”
By fostering a culture of inclusivity and collaboration, she aims to make Airbnb a key player in shaping Japan’s evolving tourism landscape.
The Future of Tech and Innovation
According to Nobue, one of the most valuable lessons from the EMBA has been the importance of data-driven decision-making. This approach has helped her make informed choices and justify strategic initiatives within her team.
“A key lesson I’ve learned is the importance of data-driven decision-making,” she says. “Implementing this approach has helped me drive initiatives with greater clarity and impact.”
By integrating data-backed strategies into her leadership style, she has enhanced efficiency and created measurable business impact.
Looking ahead, Nobue is excited about advancements in artificial intelligence and how they reshape business and consumer experiences.
“I foresee the industry moving towards a more integrated approach, where technology and human experiences increasingly converge,” she says.
Her work at Airbnb reflects this shift. She helps bridge technology with human-centered experiences, ensuring innovation enhances meaningful interactions.
Advice for Women in Tech and Marketing Leadership
Having built a successful career in tech and marketing, Nobue is passionate about helping more women step into leadership roles. Her advice is simple:
“Be confident in your abilities and actively seek mentorship,” she advises. “Building a supportive network can provide invaluable guidance and encouragement as you navigate your career journey.”
She believes that women in tech should take ownership of their ambitions, embrace challenges, and cultivate relationships that foster professional growth.
By continuing to lead with confidence, innovation, and inclusivity, she hopes to inspire more women to take on leadership roles and shape the tech industry’s future.
Nobue’s UCLA-NUS Executive MBA experience has strengthened her skills, expanded her perspective, and given her the tools to take on new challenges confidently.
As she continues her leadership path at Airbnb, she remains committed to expanding opportunities, fostering innovation, and helping shape a more connected, inclusive future.
Like Nobue Ito, are you ready to take the next step in your leadership career? Learn more about the UCLA-NUS Executive MBA today.