About Us
COMPANY & PROFILE
Rooted in the community, looking toward the world. Creating the "next step" for business through the power of marketing.
We are not just "service providers." We are partners who face challenges from the same perspective as business owners, working together side by side. By combining strategic thinking developed at Hakuhodo with community-focused agility, we support your sustainable growth.
Representative Profile
Representative / Marketing Director
Hiroaki Imashuku
Hiroaki Imashuku
After graduating from Keio University, he joined Mazda Motor Corporation in 1987, where he developed foundational marketing expertise in the Product Planning Department. In 1992, he moved to Hakuhodo Inc., where he worked for 29 years as a marketing planner and strategic planning director, handling branding and advertising strategies across a wide range of industries.
In particular, he oversaw major accounts including U-CAN, ENEOS, and Suzuki, driving cumulative account growth of approximately 20 billion yen.
From 2007, he served as creative director at TBWA Hakuhodo (established in 2006), where he drove the company's growth during its startup phase. He led creative development for global brands such as Starbucks and BOSE in the Japanese market, establishing strong market positions through successful new account development.
At the end of August 2020, at the age of 56, he took early retirement from Hakuhodo and relocated to Higashiomi City, Shiga Prefecture—his hometown. In January 2021, he founded Step Out Marketing LLC, a consulting firm specializing in marketing and branding. Committed to bringing major advertising agency expertise to regional development, he practices a new model of work-life balance from his hometown.
Current Activities
Step Out Marketing LLC
As representative, providing marketing strategy development, new business development support, data-driven management support, training, and seminars for small and medium-sized enterprises.
Tarobo Challenge Executive Committee
As event producer and vice executive committee chairman, planning and operating sports events on the stone steps of Tarobo Shrine and promoting regional collaboration. Also selected as a project adopted by the Sports Agency.
Nihon University College of Art
As a part-time lecturer in "Advertising and Marketing Strategy," he has taught over 1,000 students throughout his career.
General Incorporated Association Web Bell Mark Association
As managing director, building and operating a system that donates points accumulated through online shopping to schools and disaster-stricken areas.
Company Information
| Company Name | Step Out Marketing LLC |
|---|---|
| Representative | Hiroaki Imashuku |
| Address | 1972 Koazakicho Higashiomi City, Shiga Prefecture 527-0091 Japan |
| Established | January 2021 |
| Contact | Please contact us through the form Go to Contact Form → |
| info@step-out.jp | |
| Service Area | Nationwide service centered on Shiga Prefecture (online consulting also available) |