People Roundup: Lifull Reshuffle, REA Veteran Departs

Two very different stories in our people roundup this week, starting with big news coming out of Japan...

Lifull opens (and fills) Chief Legal Officer position and appoints six departmental CEOs

Japanese marketplace operator Lifull has made a significant reshuffle at the top of the business, appointing new Chief Legal Officer (CLO) Arisa Hirashima to improve the company's legal functions.

Meanwhile, Lifull has appointed six new CEOs for Lifeful Homes (Homes.co.jp) to more closely manage business units.

Yuji Ito, CEO and president at Lifull, said:

"In order to realize the team management, we have set forth, we have created new positions and appointed a person in charge.

"We have appointed CEO for each business and people in charge of focus areas, and selected diverse human resources based on merit. With this appointment, I would like to delegate authority and make speedy decisions, thereby spurring the realization of our vision and the growth of our business."

Shin Okubo, currently Chief Product Officer, has taken on additional responsibility as CEO of the condominium business.

Atsuhiro Fuchigami, previously chief sales officer of real estate, has been appointed CEO of rentals.

Mai Akiba is the new CEO of the Lifull FaM business unit, which specifically supports mothers taking care of young children to upskill themselves before returning to the workforce.

Gong Yinggun is the new CEO of Friendly Door, a business unit that supports outcasts, displaced individuals and refugees to find housing.

Yuko Miyasako is the new CEO of Property Information Accuracy, Lifull's system to maintain up-to-date, high-quality listings.

Henry Ruiz leaves REA Group after 15 years

Henry Ruiz has left his role as Chief Strategy Officer and CEO REAx (REA Group's property research site property.com.au), after 15 years at the company. Ruiz will leave the Group in July.

His legacy at the Group includes stints as Chief Digital Officer, CEO Asia, and Chief Product Officer.

In a post on his personal LinkedIn page, Ruiz said:

"After an amazing 15 year journey at REA Group, I have decided to bid farewell to this extraordinary organization and pass the baton on to the next generation of leaders.

"To my colleagues and friends over the years, thank you for making REA Group a fantastic place to work. I have loved working with you, having a laugh and building amazing teams together."