In Japan, the landscape of corporate leadership has traditionally been male-dominated, with women facing significant barriers to reaching top executive positions. Despite these challenges, there has been a notable increase in the number of women assuming CFO roles in recent years, reflecting a gradual shift towards greater gender diversity in corporate finance. Ju Young stands as a prime example of this trend, breaking barriers as a female finance leader in the Japanese market. With a track record of success and leadership spanning multiple industries, Ju Young brings a unique perspective and expertise to her role as Finance Director at Weave Living, where she spearheads financial strategy and operations across Japan and Korea. Her dedication to driving innovation and fostering growth underscores her commitment to paving the way for future generations of female finance leaders in Japan. Engaging in an idiosyncratic interaction with The Global Woman Leader magazine, Ju Young shares the imperious details of her journey as one of the influencing leaders in Japan. Let’s delve into it.

What expertise have you developed as a finance leader over the years?

My expertise has evolved beyond traditional accounting and taxation to encompass a forward-looking, agile approach that embraces emerging technologies and industry trends. I prioritize staying ahead of the curve, constantly analyzing market shifts and technological advancements to anticipate future challenges and opportunities in finance. This forward-thinking mindset allows me to not only adapt to changes but also to proactively shape the future of finance within my organization. Additionally, I place a strong emphasis on mentorship and knowledge sharing, empowering the next generation of finance professionals to navigate the evolving landscape with confidence.

Could you provide an overview of Weave Living and how it is different from other players in the market.

At Weave Living, our mission is to redefine the rental living experience. We offer fully integrated lifestyle solutions that seamlessly blend luxury, convenience, and community. As Asia Pacific’s living sector specialist, Weave Living not only owns and develops properties but also manages them to world-class standards. We take pride in our comprehensive approach to modern living. What truly sets Weave Living apart is our commitment to providing hassle-free city living experiences. We understand that finding the right place to live can be challenging, regardless of whether you are a local resident or moving from another city or country. That is why we have curated a range of meticulously designed living options, including multifamily and luxury serviced apartments, as well as co-living studios. All our properties are situated in prime locations across Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, and Korea. Our aim is to make the rental process as simple as possible for our residents. We take care of everything, from providing fully furnished homes to arranging essential services such as electricity, water, and internet. By eliminating the complexities of renting, we allow our residents to focus on settling into their new homes and enjoying their new surroundings.

What are the key responsibilities you hold as the Finance Director of the organization?

As the Finance Director of Weave Living, my responsibilities span various crucial aspects of financial management and strategic decision-making. Firstly, I play a pivotal role in navigating joint ventures, ensuring that financial considerations are soundly integrated into contractual agreements. Managing capital flows is another key focus, where I ensure fluid cash flow and explore avenues for tax optimization across our multi-country operations. I actively seek opportunities to mitigate currency risks through effective FX hedging strategies.

"Our Mission Is To Level The Playing Field, Ensuring That Everyone, Regardless Of Their Background, Has Equal Access To Quality Living Spaces & Amenities"

Could you discuss some of the significant challenges that you face in your current role and how you navigate them?

One of the significant challenges I face in my role as Finance Director is managing the diverse markets of Hong Kong, Singapore, Korea, and Japan, particularly overseeing operations in Korea and Japan. Each country presents unique market dynamics, regulations, and cultural nuances, making it challenging to standardize processes across regions. Consolidating multiple teams with different approaches and perspectives can be complex, as cultural differences often dictate varying methodologies. To address this challenge, I actively engage with leaders and team members to foster mutual comprehension of market intricacies through firsthand experiences and discussions. By facilitating visits to different regions and showcasing the nuances of banking systems, regulatory environments, and job roles, I aim to bridge the gap in understanding.

How do you characterize success in your role as a finance leader, and what guiding principles have you followed to achieve it?

I measure success not only by financial outcomes but also by the extent to which I contribute to developing the next generation of leaders. By fostering a culture of collaboration, mentorship, and continuous learning, I strive to cultivate a team equipped to navigate the complexities of the financial landscape with confidence and innovation. With humility as my anchor, I embrace diverse viewpoints, honoring the worth of each person's unique insights and contributions.

Message for aspiring women leaders and entrepreneurs: Pause, reflect, and appreciate the journey. Don't just run forward, take time to ensure you are heading in the right direction.

JU Young Shin, Finance Director, Weave Living

Ju Young began her career at Deloitte in New York, and later transitioned to the hedge fund industry before embarking on an expat journey to Japan in 2016. There, she played a pivotal role in building financial systems and teams, honing her expertise in FP&A and strategic finance. Progressing through leadership roles at Randstad, she eventually found her passion in real estate finance, joining Weave Living as Finance Director for Japan and Korea.