SHUTA AOKI
CEO
MARUKOME USA
WHY: CEO and president returned in October 2024 to lead, once again.
NOTABLE: Held presidential title from 2012 to 2019. Succeeded former exec Takeshi Azuma. Fifth generation of his family to run Marukome since it was founded; the Irvine factory was built in 2007.
QUOTABLE: “I am deeply honored to return to Marukome USA. Together with the dedicated team here, I want to improve quality standards while maintaining Marukome’s innovative spirit and bring the benefits of fermentation to more people through our unique technology.”
