About Us | Directors
Hiroko Coko Johnson
Senior Director of Operations
Coko is a seasoned business professional with years of experience in optimizing business operations across various industries. She has extensive knowledge and expertise in marketing, sales, and accounting and specializes in developing efficient systems and processes that improve productivity and efficiency.
Whether streamlining workflows, implementing new technologies, or improving financial controls, Coko takes a holistic, data-driven approach to problem-solving that considers people, processes, and systems. Coko is adept at working with diverse teams and has a cultural competence that equips her to value different perspectives as a key ingredient in developing innovative solutions.
She has a proven track record of successfully growing businesses and improving bottom lines and is known for her ability to identify opportunities, implement changes, and mentor teams through transformation.
Sky Whitehead
Chief Producer for Planning and Business Development
Sky Whitehead, a dedicated professional with over 25 years of experience, serves as the Chief Producer for Planning and Business Development at JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles. Throughout his career, he has passionately connected people with Japanese culture through live events and exhibitions, educational programs, and immersive experiences.
In his role at JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles, Sky remains committed to fostering mutual understanding among people from various backgrounds through the lens of Japanese culture. Before joining this organization, he held leadership positions where he significantly contributed to the growth of international and Japanese brands, spanning consumer goods, food and beverage, and exhibitions and live events.
With a Bachelor's degree in Japanese Language, Literature, and Linguistics from the University of Washington, Sky is fluent in Japanese and possesses a unique blend of cultural insights and business acumen. He continues to dedicate himself to cross-cultural understanding, with a focus on sharing Japanese culture globally, facilitating visits to Japan, academic and cultural exchanges, and fostering business opportunities between Japan and the world.
Lisa Nakanouchi
Director of PR & Marketing
Born in Japan, Lisa Nakanouchi was raised and educated in the U.S., Japan, Indonesia, and Malaysia, giving her a lifelong passion for cross-cultural exchange and appreciation for the power of communication. After graduating with a BA in public relations and advertising from Loyola University, she began her career with Japan’s largest airline, All Nippon Airways (ANA), developing marketing content to increase brand awareness in North America. From 2011-2015, Lisa served as PR Manager and then Communications Director for the Hong Kong-based consultancy HEC Global, working closely with corporate clients across Asia and the U.S. on high-level campaigns, digital content, thought leadership, and special events.
In 2016, she embarked on a new adventure as part of the founding team of JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles. This innovative project of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan seeks to showcase the best of Japanese culture in London, Sao Paulo, and Los Angeles. Lisa served as PR Manager for the pre-launch period of development and construction, and after the successful grand opening of the Los Angeles venue in 2018, Lisa took on a leadership role as the Senior Manager of PR and Marketing. Since 2022, Lisa has served as Director of PR & Marketing, leading the communications strategies, collaborative initiatives, and activities with US and Japan-based artists and stakeholders to support the mission of JAPAN HOUSE Los Angeles for local and global audiences.
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