Meet Brittany Arthur, The CEO Of Design Thinking Japan

Savvy Spotlight is a monthly feature introducing foreign and Japanese women at the frontline of what’s successful, contributing, cool, unique and interesting in the city.

Australian-born and Tokyo-based, Brittany Arthur is a powerhouse of innovation and empathy. Her connection to Japan began as a high school exchange student in Kagoshima. After gaining professional experience in Berlin, she returned in 2017 to launch her own company in Tokyo. Today, she’s the CEO of Design Thinking Japan, a trailblazing firm leading the way in human-centered AI solutions.

Alongside her husband, she’s raising their young son, blending Australian, Mexican and Japanese cultures into her daily family life. Brittany is also the voice behind The Business Karaoke Podcast—the only bilingual business podcast in Japanese and English—where she explores leadership and innovation.

Design Thinking Japan (DTJ)

Founded by Brittany, Design Thinking Japan is reshaping the way companies use AI by keeping people at the center of it all. The firm is known for delivering solutions that aren’t just high-tech, but deeply human, practical and ethically grounded. While guiding global teams through cultural complexities and helping organizations rethink innovation from the ground up, DTJ combines creativity with measurable results. Brittany’s leadership reflects the values many international women in Japan hold close: resilience, adaptability and a strong sense of purpose.

For those curious about the future of work, parenting abroad or what it takes to lead as a woman in Japan, Brittany’s journey is as inspiring as it is refreshing. Make sure to watch our full interview with her in the video above.

Brittany’s Japan Recommendations

• Take a detour from the standard path and enjoy a spot with fewer crowds
• Try eating somewhere where everything is in Japanese (unless you have an allergy)
• Get a personal experience done, like a haircut or hair wash

Visit Design Thinking Japan for more information about Brittany’s business.

If you would like to follow Brittany Arthur personally, you can find her over on LinkedIn and Instagram.

If you have anyone in mind you would like us to interview for Savvy Spotlight, leave us a comment below with your recommendations!