Kazunari Imai Appointed Chairman at Believe Japan

Digital music company Believe announced the appointment of Kazunari Imai as Chairman & Senior Executive Director of Strategic Business Relations for Believe Japan. Imai, a respected industry figure, will report to Believe Japan Managing Director Erika Ogawa and Believe APAC President Sylvain Delange.

Imai's responsibilities will include co-leading the definition and execution of Believe Japan's business scale strategy to drive growth, particularly in Label & Artist Solutions. He will also identify opportunities for large-scale mergers, acquisitions, and strategic joint ventures to strengthen Believe's presence in the Japanese music industry.

Believe, which began operations in Japan in October 2023, has been investing in building its team and infrastructure to support local artists and labels. Recent developments include the launch of Artist Services in February 2024 and a comprehensive partnership with Teichiku Entertainment in March 2025.

Japan represents the world's second-largest music market, with ongoing digitalization presenting significant growth potential for Believe. Imai brings nearly 40 years of experience in the Japanese music business, including executive roles at Victor Entertainment and Pony Canyon, and founded the music consulting agency KiSML.Inc in 2023.