At Kao, Mr. Kato has long been responsible for managing and promoting the company's technology related IP activities worldwide. Currently as IP Fellow of Kao, he advises on strategic development of the corporate IP function, while enhancing external coordination/collaboration in the context of IP. Below, he discusses how to conquer the world of IP.
Can you share ways in which Japan is advancing which is affecting your work as an IP attorney?
Like the rest of the other industrialised countries, with the advancement of new technologies involving IoT and AI (collectively referred to by the Japanese government as ‘Connected Industries’), Japan is about to go through a rapid change in the industrial landscape. Japan is also mindful of social issues such as its aging society and environmental challenges. All of these necessarily affect consumers’ behaviours, needs and preferences, which in turn deeply impact companies like Kao in developing new products and services. Corporate IP professionals have to reevaluate the types of patents and the types of IP activities as a whole, from the view point of which could better serve to cultivate future businesses. In doing so, you need to remember that IP is itself not a goal but just a ‘tool’ for achieving the business goal.
What complications often arise in your line of work and how do you overcome this challenge?
Corporate IP professionals need to strike a delicate balance between tackling new challenges and preserving lasting values. Even though an IP team may strive hard to adapt to technological and social changes, it does not mean that they could disregard what has been important until now, such as the quality of individual IP rights. The outcome of a multi-million dollar patent litigation may hinge upon the interpretation of a single word or two in a patent claim. It is the nature of our work and it will continue to be so. There is no magic pill to find a good balance point. You just need to keep the big picture and a long-term perspective.
Do you have a new year’s resolution which will reshape your life as an IP attorney?
Having been in the IP field for more than two and a half decades, I feel obliged to provide my expertise in assisting younger generations to strengthen their career for the benefit of the entire IP community. This is my basic standpoint when I act as Managing Director of JIPA. Along the same line, currently I give an IP course at a university; this all stems from my belief that enhanced and sound IP activities should lead to more dynamic growth in Japanese economy. Of course, it calls for more balance between directly working for the company that you belong to, and working for the surrounding community. In the New Year I hope to spend more of my time in the latter direction.
With technology advancing at a rapid pace and affecting inventions, how do you ensure your knowledge on the latest developments are up to date to ensure your corporate clients are not at risk of falling behind in utilisation of IP assets?
First, it is a fun part of IP practice to be close to the cutting edge of new technologies. Learning is an enjoyment and also a necessity for an IP professional because without understanding the core value of new technologies, you could not obtain the appropriate IP protection they deserve. Another necessity for today’s IP professional, is a global mindset. While technologies and related businesses may easily spread beyond borders, today’s IP systems remain unique by countries/regions in many aspects. For the purpose of advising effective IP strategies, it is essential to grasp characteristics and potential future trends in IP rules and practices in at least the major jurisdictions involved. When flooded with IP-related information, you should make best efforts to discern parts that might affect corporate decision-making from the rest which will have less impact. Naturally you cannot be the master of everything, so it is important to build a strong network and know right person to work with.
Minoru Kato – KAO corporation
2-1-3 Bunka, Sumida-ku, Tokyo, Japan 131-8501
Phone: +81-3-5630-9241
Fax: +81-3-5630-9712
Email: kato.minoru@kao.com
Minoru Kato is a registered Japanese Patent Attorney (“Benrishi” in Japanese) working for Kao Corporation. Before joining Kao in 2000, he was a prosecutor/litigator specialising chemical and biotech patents at a Japanese IP law firm. As a part of his external activities, Mr. Kato serves as a managing director of JIPA (the Japan Intellectual Property Association).
Kao Corporation is a company operating in Asia, Oceania, North America and Europe in the field of consumer products and industrial chemicals. Founded in Japan in 1887, Kao has been offering customers cleanliness, beauty and health for the last 130 years, and is committed to continue to enrich the lives of people around the world. Representative consumer brands outside Japan include “Bioré” and “Jergens” skincare, “John Frieda” haircare, “Kanebo” cosmetics and “Merries” diapers (available in Asia).
